Springboks unveil striking new kit to mark 30-Year Anniversary of 1995 World Cup triumph

SA Rugby, in partnership with Nike, has unveiled the Springboks’ new playing kit and a special-edition retro jersey to commemorate the 30th anniversary of South Africa’s iconic 1995 Rugby World Cup victory.

The launch took place on Tuesday, exactly three decades after Nelson Mandela famously handed the Webb Ellis Cup to then Springbok captain Francois Pienaar at Ellis Park. The 2025 jersey, blending heritage and innovation, pays tribute to that unforgettable moment in South African sport.

The playing kit remains rooted in the classic green and gold but introduces a bold new neckline inspired by the King Protea. The design reflects the national flower in an elegant collar detail, symbolising growth and unity. Inside the collar, four stars represent the Springboks’ four World Cup victories, alongside the phrase “Forever Green Forever Gold”.

While the jersey looks to the future with advanced fabric technology for optimal breathability, moisture control, and flexibility, it also nods to the past with subtle design elements honouring past glories.

In addition to the primary home jersey, the Boks will don an all-white alternate kit featuring the same Protea-inspired collar in traditional bottle green. Both jerseys form part of a wider training and lifestyle apparel range designed to allow supporters to wear their pride both on and off the pitch.

A major highlight of the collection is the faithful recreation of the 1995 World Cup jersey, made from traditional cotton and featuring the original Springbok emblem leaping over a wreath of proteas. This retro piece celebrates one of the most defining moments in the nation's sporting history.

Nike has also designed a unique pre-match warm-up jersey that showcases a starburst pattern of King Protea buds viewed from above, reinforcing the theme of growth and national pride.

Rian Oberholzer, CEO of SA Rugby, praised the collection for its balance between tradition and innovation.

“Nike has done a superb job to produce a kit range that both honours the traditions of the Springboks while giving it a modern design edge,” Oberholzer said. “We also chose to honour the 30th anniversary of the 1995 victory that was such a watershed moment for rugby and for South Africa.

“We believe the replica kit and the wide range of lifestyle apparel and fan-centric accessories that go with it will allow supporters to wear their pride wherever they go – and especially on Bok Fridays.”

The home and alternate jerseys, along with the full lifestyle collection, will be available for purchase from Wednesday, 25 June, at Nike stores, major retailers, and online platforms.