Stormers star Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu turned down millions to stay in Cape Town

Cape Town is home, and for Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, that matters more than anything else.

While rugby teams from across the world were lining up with big offers and promises of lucrative contracts, he chose to stay where it all began. Money and overseas interest couldn’t compete with the connection he feels to the city, the team and the people who support it.

Feinberg-Mngomezulu (23) has committed his future to Stormers Rugby until 2029, turning down strong interest from Japan and other major rugby markets. As his form has improved and his profile has grown, so too has the attention. But instead of chasing the biggest deal, he decided to back the environment he knows and believes in.

That decision was shared with supporters in memorable fashion on Saturday afternoon at the DHL Stadium. Feinberg-Mngomezulu was unveiled as the latest signing in front of 28 000 fans during halftime of the United Rugby Championship clash against the Lions. The timing couldn’t have been better.

The home crowd responded with a huge lift in energy, and the team followed suit, increasing the intensity in the second half to secure a 34–27 win to remain unbeaten.

Feinberg-Mngomezulu said the choice was an easy one when it came down to what matters most to him.

“Cape Town is home. I grew up supporting this team and I know what it means to the people here,” he said.

“There’s always interest when things start going well, but what we have here is special. The squad, the coaches and the connection with our fans make this a place you want to stay. The vision is clear with Project 2029, and I want to be part of that journey.”

By committing long-term, Feinberg-Mngomezulu has shown his belief in the direction the team is heading. More than that, he has sent a clear message that success doesn’t always have to mean leaving home. For Cape Town supporters, it’s a powerful sign of trust — and a reason to be excited about what lies ahead.

Stormers director of rugby John Dobson said Feinberg-Mngomezulu is vital for the franchise.

“Sacha is keen to be here and we got it right thanks to some third parties, which are some nice causes. It was really a collective.

“The money being thrown from overseas, it is a great compromise from Sacha’s side in terms of the price and the collective view to keep him. I don’t think we could’ve lost him to this franchise. What he stands for and how he plays.

“It is important for Project 2029 that we keep guys like him around. It took a lot of work to keep him here.”