Springboks, SA Rugby to secure R1.4 billion investment

It has recently been reported that Springboks could be set for a cash injection following news reports that a major investment from American stakeholders is close to being finalised with SA Rugby.

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Previously, there was talk that SA Rugby was in talks with Six Nations partners CVC Capital Partners, but these negotiations appear to have cooled off.

With the brand power of SA Rugby and the Springboks having skyrocketed during a four-year period when the national team has won two World Cups and a British & Irish Lions series, it is now reported that US company, Ackerley Sports Group, is poised to make a major investment.

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According to the highly reputable Cash N Sport publication and several other outlets, the R1.42 billion ($75 million) investment could be finalised as soon as May if the deal is successfully approved by SARU members.

In news actually provided by the Ackerley Sports Group, the partnership agreement will see an investment in South African rugby at all levels, supporting the professional game, and growing the revenue base of the Springboks and SARU’s commercial activities.

“Under the terms of the agreement, which remains subject to further negotiations and final approval by the constituent members of SARU, ASG will invest in a Commercial Rights Corporation (CRC), which will hold all current and future revenue-generating assets of the Springboks and SARU. CRC will be majority owned by SARU, with ASG taking a significant minority interest,” according to a statement.

You can read more about this major investment here

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SA RUGBY HAS SUCCESSFULLY NEGOTIATED THIS MAJOR INVESTMENT THAT WILL DIRECTLY BENEFIT THE SPRINGBOKS

“We are excited to partner with a legendary global sports franchise like the Springboks,” said Ted Ackerley, Co-Founder, Ackerley Sports Group. “Our collaboration will establish a world-wide expansion of the most iconic brand in rugby. This investment in the Springboks represents a unique opportunity for us to match the on-field success of the team with the resources needed to establish and sustain the franchise as a global powerhouse.

“We will bring decades of experience and passion for excellence with us while listening carefully to the people of South Africa to ensure that this team continues to reflect the history and culture of this amazing country,” said Ted Ackerley, Co-Founder, Ackerley Sports Group.

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ABOUT ACKERLEY SPORTS GROUP

Ackerley Sports Group was formed in 2023 by Christopher and Ted Ackerley of Ackerley Partners, LLC in Seattle, WA along with their London-based partner – Timothy Kirkwood who brings a prolific background in international finance and investment banking. The platform invests in the sports sector with a focus on leagues, teams, venues, media, technology and development opportunities. 

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