Willie Le Roux has decided his future, signing a two-year contract extension with the Bulls to remain at Loftus Versfeld until 2027.
The Springboks veteran’s decision brings an end to months of speculation as Le Roux was linked with a move back to England with Premiership club Bath and he reportedly garnered interest in Japan.
Willie Le Roux re-signs
Le Roux initially arrived on a three-year deal when he joined the Bulls in 2023, which would have run until June 2026 but the Pretoria-based franchise confirmed that “El Maestro will continue to ply his trade and mentor the next crop of stars until June 2027.”
Jake White has repeatedly highlighted the importance of experienced internationals like Le Roux in the South African rugby ecosystem and the Bulls boss is pleased that he will have the services of such an experienced campaigner for the next two years.
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“It is great to be able to have him extend with us,” he said.
“This is what our rugby needs: experienced campaigners to share their IP with the next crop of players. Willie has proven to us all – in a short time – just how important he is to what we are trying to achieve, I am sure his extension will be welcomed news to everyone, including players, coaches and our loyal fans.”
Since joining the Bulls, Le Roux has made 29 appearances across the Vodacom United Rugby Championship (24) and the Investec Champions Cup (5). He has also taken his Test cap tally to 98 with the Springboks and will look to become just the eighth player to play 100 Test matches for South Africa in 2025. A milestone, Springboks coach Rassie Erasmus states he deserves to hit.
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Why Le Roux rejected overseas interest
As for Le Roux, he explained why he snubbed overseas interest to remain in South Africa with the Bulls.
“South Africa will always be my home, but my teammates at the Vodacom Bulls have been a big reason behind the decision to stay,” he said.
“Hopefully, I can continue to guide some of the passionate younger players that are coming through over the next two years.”
On his time at Loftus thus far, he added: “This is an unreal stadium to play in, it’s always been one of my favourites, you can’t beat the vibe that the supporters bring every week. The club is special because of its fans and just what it means to put on its jersey every week we play.
“Reaching the VURC Grand Final in my first year with the club and a very special semi-final win at Loftus against a brilliant Leinster side, as well as being able to win the VURC SA Shield, are all among my top highlights thus far. Now we look ahead to more of these special memories.”
Src: Planetrugby.com - https://www.planetrugby.com/news/jake-white-boost-as-springboks-veteran-pens-new-deal-until-the-next-world-cup
