URC Awards: Feinberg-Mngomezulu wins but Wilco Louw was the real workhorse
Roger Federer star-struck me — and the URC panel may have been star-struck too. Why Wilco Louw should have won Player of the Year.
Rugby World Cup 1995 | On this day: All Blacks annihilate Japan in record-breaking rout
On 4 June 1995, New Zealand crushed Japan 145–17 in Bloemfontein, setting several enduring records in one of Rugby World Cup history’s most lopsided matches. Meanwhile, Ireland edged Wales in a thrilling Pool C decider, and England secured top spot in Pool B.
Respect is earned: From Seagal’s disaster to Chelsea’s apathy to the PSL’s governance crisis
A chaotic Steven Seagal film mirrors Chelsea’s lacklustre Conference League final — and deeper still, the disarray of South African football, where poor governance and indifference threaten the respect the game demands.
Fixing the flaws: How the URC can reach its full potential
The United Rugby Championship is bursting with promise – a cross-hemisphere league packed with star players, proud clubs, and passionate fans. But to truly shine, the competition must overcome key structural challenges. From scheduling frustrations and player availability issues to financial constraints and regional imbalances, the URC has growing pains it can’t ignore.
In the rough: How golf’s surprising power now reaches from the fairway to the White House
Golf’s influence stretches beyond the fairway – from everyday obsession and booming global appeal to a high-stakes diplomatic moment in the White House involving Ernie Els, Retief Goosen and US President Donald Trump.
Predicting Springbok XV to face Barbarians in Cape Town is all experimental
Rassie Erasmus has named a 54-man Springbok alignment squad, with the second camp in Cape Town this week. Independent Media's focus turns to predicting the potential line-up for the Barbarians match in June.
Lions look for comeuppance against 'bogey' team Ospreys
The Lions reflect on a turbulent 2024/25 United Rugby Championship season marked by early promise, frustrating defeats, and a final showdown against bogey team Ospreys.
Lions aim to end disappointing URC season on a high against Ospreys
The Lions wrap up their United Rugby Championship campaign against Ospreys at Ellis Park, looking to salvage pride after a season of inconsistency and missed opportunities.
'Fremdscham' in Johannesburg: The Lions’ season unravels in slow motion
A passionate Lions fan reflects on the team’s dramatic fall from form in the 2024/25 United Rugby Championship season. From a promising start to a string of crushing defeats, this commentary explores where it all went wrong – with a touch of German vocabulary for good measure.
Lions target grand URC heist in final act and bank on Ellis Park to revive Top 8 hopes
After a winless tour of Britain, the Lions return to Ellis Park for a decisive four-match stretch that could define their United Rugby Championship season. Sitting 14th on the log, Francke Horn and his team need maximum points — and a touch of brilliance — to keep their play-off hopes alive, starting with a crucial clash against Benetton on Saturday.
Bruised but not beaten: Lions target strong finish at home in URC
The Lions return from a tough UK tour aiming to reignite their URC play-off hopes. Prop Asenathi Ntlabakanye calls for greater physicality as they prepare for a crucial home clash against Benetton.
Nolusindiso Booi to earn historic 50th cap for Springbok Women against Spain
Springbok Women’s captain Nolusindiso Booi will make history as the first South African woman to reach 50 Test caps when the team face Spain in Elche. The milestone highlights Booi’s leadership and SA Rugby’s commitment to the women’s game. Nadine Roos and Ayanda Malinga return to the starting XV following success in the Sevens Challenger Series, as the Boks aim to extend their winning record against Spain.
Much like Quidditch, Lawson’s Red Bull drive made no sense
Much like Quidditch, Red Bull’s decision to give Liam Lawson a seat made no sense. This article breaks down why Yuki Tsunoda was the rightful choice all along and how Red Bull’s strategy continues to defy logic ahead of the Japanese Grand Prix.
The Springboks: Rugby’s hottest brand on and off the field
The Springboks have transformed into a powerful brand, attracting major sponsorships from companies like FNB, Pick n Pay, Coca-Cola, and Monster Energy. This article explores how SA Rugby’s brand value has skyrocketed since 2016, with insights into the mutual benefits of these partnerships.
Lions refuse to dwell on Cardiff defeat as URC play-off race heats up
The Lions remain determined to secure a URC play-off spot despite their narrow defeat to Cardiff. With crucial fixtures ahead, JC Pretorius and coach Julian Redelinghuys emphasise the need to bounce back and refine their tactics. Can they overcome their setbacks and climb into the top eight?
Lions face season-defining European tour in URC and Challenge Cup battle
The Lions embark on a crucial European tour, facing Cardiff and Glasgow Warriors in the URC before a Challenge Cup showdown against Edinburgh. With a Top 8 spot and silverware on the line, every match could shape their season. Can they balance both competitions and secure success?
India’s monopoly will lead cricket to eventual ruin
Monopoly isn’t just a board game — it reflects real-world power. From the Dutch East India Company’s brutal control to De Beers’ diamond dominance, monopolies have led to exploitation and market manipulation. Now, Indian cricket holds 62% of the sport’s revenue, expanding its grip globally. With the IPL valued at $11 billion, cricket risks falling into the classic monopoly trap — higher prices, fewer choices, and suppressed competition.
COLUMN | Return of Felix Jones will give Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus his Avengers moment
Felix Jones has rejoined the Springboks, reuniting with Rassie Erasmus after playing a key role in the 2019 and 2023 World Cup wins following a short stint with England.
Stormers must rain havoc on Bulls scrum to have any chance
With the Stormers struggling in the scrums ahead of their crucial URC clash against the Bulls, retired Springbok prop Steven Kitshoff’s expertise could be invaluable. The Bulls boast a dominant pack, while the Stormers rank among the weakest. With playoff hopes at stake, they must find a way to counter or face another costly defeat.
It's personal for the Lions as they host Sharks
The Lions face the Sharks at Ellis Park this Saturday in a high-stakes URC clash. With revenge on their minds after last year’s Currie Cup final, the Lions look to key players like Sibabalo Qoma and Ruan Venter for dominance. Meanwhile, the Sharks aim to break their losing streak with a full-strength squad.
Lewis Hamilton in red: a fashion statement, or Ferrari’s future? | Break Point Column
Seven-time Formula 1 world champion Lewis Hamilton’s move to Scuderia Ferrari marks a new chapter in his career. But will Hamilton’s technical expertise and passion for racing be enough to make a difference this season?
American scrum-lite sanctions a threat to rugby’s core values
The Major League Rugby’s decision to limit scrums has sparked outrage, raising questions about rugby’s fundamental values in America ahead of the 2031 World Cup in the USA.
Roger Federer and Siya Kolisi partner to uplift SA youth through education
Tennis legend Roger Federer joined forces with Springbok captain Siya Kolisi in Mpumalanga, delivering educational resources and inspiration through their foundations.
Why Dricus du Plessis’ support of Trump, Musk has left South African sports fans out in the cold. . . again
As Dricus du Plessis makes headlines with his controversial Donald Trump endorsement, we unpack the broader impact of sports heroes who disappoint their fans.
Binder impressed with ‘fast’ KTM as MotoGP testing begins, Martin suffers major crash
Brad Binder returns to the track as MotoGP pre-season testing kicks off in Malaysia, praising his Red Bull KTM's speed, while world champion Jorge Martin faces surgery after a serious testing crash. Despite KTM's off-track financial challenges, the team shows promising signs for 2025.