Extra Smooth new chapter in Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry revealed at FNB

Castle Double Malt today took its place at the heart of Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry, becoming the title partner of one of the most celebrated sporting properties and marking the most significant chapter yet in the brand’s journey into South African rugby. cat-cross.com

The title partnership will bring supporters closer to Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry than ever before through one of the biggest fan engagement programmes associated with the series, including nationwide watch parties and a host of experiences designed to celebrate one of rugby’s greatest contests and to be announced in due course.

At Johannesburg’s iconic FNB Stadium, the next chapter of Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry unfolded before rugby legends, current Springboks, representatives from SA Rugby and New Zealand Rugby, media and invited guests. Hosted by former Springbok and broadcaster Gcobani Bobo, the launch opened with an Impi Zulu warrior performance, whose rhythmic energy and unmistakable sense of national pride set the tone for the occasion.

PAST AND PRESENT COME TOGETHER AS VETERANS OF YESTERYEAR AND STARS OF TODAY MEET

Across three carefully curated conversations, the launch celebrated Castle Double Malt’s Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry through its past, present and future.

Leaders from South African Breweries, SA Rugby and New Zealand Rugby explored the significance of Castle Double Malt’s title partnership before Springbok legends Bakkies Botha and Bismarck du Plessis joined former All-Blacks captain, Sean Fitzpatrick to reflect on defining moments, unforgettable encounters and the enduring spirit that has shaped more than a century of rugby history.

The spotlight then shifted to the future as current Springboks Kwagga Smith and Lukhanyo Am looked ahead to the upcoming fixtures and the opportunity to add their own chapter to one of world sport’s greatest rivalries.

Gcobani Bobo reflected on what makes the rivalry unique.

“People see the intensity on the field, but not always what happens afterwards – the conversations, the friendships and the admiration between opponents who understand exactly what they’ve been through. Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry isn’t only about eighty minutes. It’s about the stories that live long after the final whistle.”

For former All-Blacks captain Sean Fitzpatrick, that unwritten code has always been what separates Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry from every other.

“There was never a tougher challenge than facing the Springboks. Every Test demanded everything you had. But that’s what made the rivalry so special. It pushed both teams to become better, and the regard that exists between those who’ve lived it is something you carry for life. It’s wonderful to see that spirit celebrated through this partnership.”

SPRINGBOKS VS. ALL BLACKS RIVALRY IS TOP BILLING IN RUGBY

Since first meeting in 1921, the Springboks and All Blacks have contested more than 100 Test matches. Between them, they have won seven men’s Rugby World Cup titles and established a rivalry recognised around the world for the standard it continues to set.

While Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry is forged not only through hard hitting tackles, but the qualities that shape greatness – extraordinary skill, composure, sportsmanship and the mutual respect earned between worthy opponents. Play that can make fans go ‘That’s extra smooth’.

It is these qualities that Castle Double Malt celebrates being the Official Title Partner of Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry.

Rian Oberholzer, CEO of SA Rugby, welcomed the partnership with enthusiasm: “Few rivalries in world sport have challenged generations of players to raise their standards quite like the Springboks and All Blacks. Castle Double Malt understands what makes this contest so special – not only the intensity on the field, but the values that have defined it for more than a century. We’re delighted to welcome the brand as Title Partner and look forward to creating unforgettable experiences for supporters throughout the series.”

“Becoming the Title Partner of Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry marks a defining milestone for Castle Double Malt,” said Vaughan Croeser, Vice President of Marketing at South African Breweries.

“We’ve always believed extraordinary things happen when two greats come together, and there are few partnerships that embody that belief more naturally than the Springboks and All Blacks. For more than a century, these two great rugby nations have brought out the very best in one another through extraordinary skill, composure and an unwavering pursuit of excellence. We’re proud to celebrate that legacy while bringing supporters closer to Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry than ever before.”

RUGBY’S GREATEST RIVALRY FIXTURES

The confirmed Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry fixtures are:

• 7 August: DHL Stormers vs All Blacks – DHL Stadium, Cape Town
• 11 August: Hollywoodbets Sharks vs All Blacks – Hollywoodbets Kings Park, Durban
• 15 August: Vodacom Bulls vs All Blacks – Loftus Versfeld, Pretoria
• 22 August: Springboks vs All Blacks (First Test) – Ellis Park, Johannesburg
• 25 August: Lions vs All Blacks – Ellis Park, Johannesburg
• 29 August: Springboks vs All Blacks (Second Test) – DHL Stadium, Cape Town
• 5 September: Springboks vs All Blacks (Third Test) – FNB Stadium, Johannesburg
• 12 September: Springboks vs All Blacks (Fourth Test) – M&T Bank Stadium, Baltimore, United States

WHY RUGBY’S GREATEST RIVALRY MATTERS

The tour offers much more than a traditional Test series.

The All Blacks will spend more than a month on South African soil. They will face four United Rugby Championship franchises before meeting the Springboks in the four-Test Freedom Cup series.

The format brings back the traditional rugby tours that many supporters regard as the pinnacle of the international game.

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