Siya Kolisi Joins Racing 92: Settling seamlessly after World Cup victory

RUGBY. Siya Kolisi Joins Racing 92 After World Champion Title Win

Siya Kolisi arrived at Racing 92 on November 6, following his victory as the captain of the Springboks in the 2023 World Championship. He had his first training session with the Racingmen on November 7.

Siya Kolisi: “Jacky Lorenzetti Played a Key Role”

“I received a warm welcome,” said Siya Kolisi during a press conference on November 9, alongside Racing 92’s president Laurent Travers and coach Stuart Lancaster. Since his arrival, he has been well supported by the entire club staff.

Siya Kolisi, 32 years old, will be playing abroad for the first time after representing South Africa’s Western Province, Stormers, and Sharks since 2011. The double world champion of 2019 and 2023 chose the Top 14, considering it the most challenging and renowned championship in the world. Racing 92 was his preferred choice not only for its reputation but also due to the positive meeting with Jacky Lorenzetti.

“The determining factor was the meeting with Jacky Lorenzetti. He told me that Racing was accustomed to welcoming great players. But I also felt that the human aspect was important. I liked it. It made me want to be part of this dynamic.”

Siya Kolisi Excited to Reunite with Cameron Woki and Gaël Fickou

The presence of a diverse group of international players in Racing 92 makes Siya Kolisi’s experience even more interesting. “Meeting other players is probably the best thing for me,” he emphasized.

“I’m really happy to see Cameron and Gael. I’ve known them for a long time, and seeing them every day is different and exciting. I also met Josh, who is incredibly strong but quite shy for such a solid person. It’s great,” Siya Kolisi later revealed.

Siya Kolisi’s Banter with Camille Chat

The new Racing 92 flanker has already integrated well into the team, even joking about his new teammates. His first target is Camille Chat, the international hooker with 33 caps for the French national team.

“I can’t help but stare at Camille Chat’s neck. Seeing it in person, I can’t believe how long it is. It’s like his head and shoulders. I think the shampoo brand Head and Shoulders should sponsor him,” Siya Kolisi playfully remarked.

Siya Kolisi will be present at the Paris Défense Arena on November 26, 2023, for the match against La Rochelle. Whether he will be in the stands or on the pitch will depend on the decision of his new manager, Stuart Lancaster.

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