MTN Partnership with Springboks: A Legacy of Excellence and Transformation in Rugby

Following an eight-year partnership the South African multinational telecommunications company, MTN, has concluded its sponsorship of the South African national rugby team, the Springboks, leaving an indelible mark on the sport. The collaboration has been pivotal in rejuvenating South African rugby, culminating in two RWC victories in 2019 and 2023.

MTN Redefined Transformation and Unity in Rugby

In 2017, just as South African rugby was navigating through a challenging period, MTN stepped in with a sponsorship offer which went beyond financial support. For MTN SA CEO, Charles Molapisi this relationship was about “more than branding; it was about redefining transformation by returning rugby to the people and fostering the spirit of Ubuntu.”

“Beyond the professional game, MTN committed R30 million to grassroots rugby development in South Africa, and we will continue playing a vital role in the development phase of rugby across the country,”

We demonstrated leadership and commitment to SA sport and could not be happier with the results
Charles Molapisi

Under the influence of MTN, the Springboks moved back into the spotlight with their path to victory taking them all over the country including” Emirate Airline Park, Stade de France, and Twickenham to the inner cities, small towns, and rural areas where growth needed a boost.

Legacy of Leadership and Inspiration

The road with the Springboks brought MTN through festivals under the spotlight to some of the most iconic sporting arenas including Twickenham Harbor Stadium, Emirate Airline Park and Stade de France.

The Partnership Impact

• The Springboks’ consecutive RWC wins in 2019 and 2023.
• Transformation efforts within the grassroots rugby.
• A strong emphasis on community engagement and fan interaction

The impact of the sponsorship extends beyond trophies, having fostered a deeper connection between the team and local communities. is compelling demonstration of Unite.

The Future

[MTN as it opens these new chapters in its sponsorship strategy, it will likely explore opportunities to support various sports and athletes, injecting new energy and excitement into South African sports.]

New Opportunities

• Investment in grassroots development and youth-related programs.
• Broadening fan engagement initiatives across various sports.
• Highlighting the advancement of Women’s tarmac

Importance of Partnership in Grass Roots

The change in shape of the rugby game in South Africa could not be possible without an enthusiastic enquiry into the transport of development in the grass roots of the sport

We remain proud wearers of the Bok jersey. Rugby’s success shows the impact sport can have in uniting our nation, inspiring its people and giving hope to millions. There is no doubt that with the continuing support of MTN and other corporates, together with the backing of sport bodies like SA Rugby, SA will continue to raise the champions of tomorrow,
Charles Molapisi

[Mark Alexander, President of SA Rugby has reacted to the support from MTN with joy].

Upcoming Opportunities

“If you remember, we put out a call to corporate South Africa to partner with us at a challenging time for rugby in this country, and MTN answered that call, loud and clearly.”

Mark Alexander

Hope for the Sport

• A possible impact on the reception of the sport among youths.
• Future growth country.

The closing of MTN’s sponsorship chapter does not mean the end of their involvement in sports. For MTN, it is not enough for them to leave with a trail of triumphs behind them but to spark up a new chapter of triumphs for the teams they partner with.