South African rugby fans can’t stop breaking records!

The Vodacom United Rugby Championship (URC) is experiencing a fan frenzy of epic proportions, shattering attendance records for the second time in just three weeks. Round nine witnessed a jaw-dropping 146,046 fans roar through stadium gates across the league, pulverizing the previous record of 135,747 set just weeks earlier.

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This record-breaking surge in support is a clear victory lap for the URC’s dedication to crafting electrifying and inclusive match-day experiences. “Our clubs deserve a standing ovation,” declared Martin Anayi, URC CEO. “They’re going above and beyond to promote their games and create unforgettable atmospheres that keep fans coming back for more.”

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LOCAL DERBIES FUEL RECORD-BREAKING ROARS

The Loftus Versfeld showdown between the Vodacom Bulls and the Emirates Lions stole the show in round nine, drawing a thunderous 26,632 spectators. This electrifying local derby was the driving force behind pushing the round’s total attendance past the 140,000 mark, a monumental achievement.

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But the record-breaking wasn’t confined to Pretoria. The DHL Stormers continued their reign as kings of home-crowd attraction, packing 37,246 passionate fans into Cape Town Stadium to witness their clash with the Hollywoodbets Sharks. Even inter-regional rivalries like Edinburgh Rugby vs. Glasgow Warriors roared with 37,904 spectators, proving the league’s widespread appeal.

BUILDING ON A SEASON OF SUCCESS

This latest attendance record builds on the URC’s already impressive 2022/23 season, which saw a staggering 1.6 million fans pour through the turnstiles. The league’s Grand Final shattered attendance records with 56,334 fans, and viewership reached an all-time high of 37.4 million across the campaign.

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“Beyond the packed stadiums, we’re witnessing incredible numbers tuning in,” Anayi noted. “It’s clear that the Vodacom URC is on a record-breaking roll, fuelled by the unwavering support of everyone involved and the ever-increasing competitiveness of the league.”

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With passionate fans shattering attendance records and viewership numbers skyrocketing, the future of the Vodacom URC has never looked brighter. The league is undeniably capturing the hearts of rugby fans across the globe.

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