In a recent dialogue with the press, SA Rugby CEO Rian Oberholzer expressed deep concern over the potential shift in the British and Irish Lions' touring schedule, which currently includes a visit to South Africa every 12 years. This tradition, steeped in rugby history, faces uncertainty as the Lions explore new markets to enhance their global influence and financial returns.
Oberholzer described the possibility of the Lions bypassing South Africa as "tragic," especially following the financially disappointing 2021 tour, which took place behind closed doors due to the pandemic. "All the more so because we came up short in 2021, when we had to present the Lions tour during COVID-19 and could make virtually no money," he lamented.
"People have to be careful not to just do away with tradition for the sake of it."
The Lions are currently assessing potential new destinations beyond their traditional stops in South Africa, Australia, and New Zealand. This exploration is part of a broader strategy to "expand their value and awareness further into new audiences," potentially including rugby-growing regions like France, Japan, and the Americas.
Oberholzer, however, is not panicking yet. "This Lions project is still at a very early stage, and they are only now appointing advisors to investigate the viability of a new touring model," he noted. The decision is still up in the air, and South Africa will respond accordingly once a final determination is made.
Former Scotland number eight John Beattie also weighed in on the discussion. Having experienced the Lions' tours firsthand in the early '80s, Beattie understands the financial incentives behind expanding to larger markets. "The USA, with a population of 354 million, has the largest economy in the world," he observed, supporting the idea of tapping into new territories with robust economic and audience potentials.
"If you can get the best of Britain to tour Japan, the stadiums will sell out and their pockets will be full of money."
Despite recognizing the financial logic, Beattie shared a sentimental view on the importance of maintaining traditional rugby strongholds like South Africa in the Lions' itinerary. Reflecting on a less thrilling Australian tour, he remarked, "It would be very, very sad. South Africa is a real rugby country, and I have always considered South Africa and New Zealand to be the giants of the game. Touring there less often would basically amount to a show of disrespect."
As the debate continues, the rugby community watches closely, hoping that tradition and innovation can find a balance that honors the past while embracing the future.
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In a recent dialogue with the press, SA Rugby CEO Rian Oberholzer expressed deep concern over the potential shift in the British and Irish Lions' touring schedule, which currently includes a visit to South Africa every 12 years. This tradition, steeped in rugby history, faces uncertainty as the Lions explore new markets to enhance their global influence and financial returns.
Oberholzer described the possibility of the Lions bypassing South Africa as "tragic," especially following the financially disappointing 2021 tour, which took place behind closed doors due to the pandemic. "All the more so because we came up short in 2021, when we had to present the Lions tour during COVID-19 and could make virtually no money," he lamented.
"People have to be careful not to just do away with tradition for the sake of it."
The Lions are currently assessing potential new destinations beyond their traditional stops in South Africa, Australia, and New Zealand. This exploration is part of a broader strategy to "expand their value and awareness further into new audiences," potentially including rugby-growing regions like France, Japan, and the Americas.
Oberholzer, however, is not panicking yet. "This Lions project is still at a very early stage, and they are only now appointing advisors to investigate the viability of a new touring model," he noted. The decision is still up in the air, and South Africa will respond accordingly once a final determination is made.
Former Scotland number eight John Beattie also weighed in on the discussion. Having experienced the Lions' tours firsthand in the early '80s, Beattie understands the financial incentives behind expanding to larger markets. "The USA, with a population of 354 million, has the largest economy in the world," he observed, supporting the idea of tapping into new territories with robust economic and audience potentials.
"If you can get the best of Britain to tour Japan, the stadiums will sell out and their pockets will be full of money."
Despite recognizing the financial logic, Beattie shared a sentimental view on the importance of maintaining traditional rugby strongholds like South Africa in the Lions' itinerary. Reflecting on a less thrilling Australian tour, he remarked, "It would be very, very sad. South Africa is a real rugby country, and I have always considered South Africa and New Zealand to be the giants of the game. Touring there less often would basically amount to a show of disrespect."
As the debate continues, the rugby community watches closely, hoping that tradition and innovation can find a balance that honors the past while embracing the future.