As the 2026 international rugby season approaches, SA Rugby is eager to secure the future of Rassie Erasmus’ assistant coaches, aiming to extend their contracts up to the 2031 Rugby World Cup. Notably, Tony Brown, a key figure in the Springboks' coaching lineup, remains committed despite rumors of a return to New Zealand following Scott Robertson's dismissal as the All Blacks head coach.
Rian Oberholzer, the CEO of SA Rugby, has made it clear that the organization expects Brown to honor his contract until 2027 and ideally, extend beyond. "He [Brown] and Rassie spoke [about the speculation]," Oberholzer revealed on the Rapport Praat Sport podcast. "Our position is very clear: he has a contract with us until 2027, and we expect him to stick to it."
"If we can keep him longer than 2027, it will be even better for us."
Since joining the Springboks after the 2023 World Cup, Brown has been instrumental in enhancing the team's offensive strategies, contributing significantly to their consecutive Rugby Championship victories and unbeaten end-of-year tours. Oberholzer admitted that losing Brown would significantly impact the team, praising his work ethic and rapport with the players.
The discussions about Brown’s future intensified following New Zealand Rugby’s decision to part with Robertson, sparking speculations about Brown potentially teaming up with Jamie Joseph, should he step in as the All Blacks' head coach. Despite these rumors, Brown has dismissed the possibility of an early departure, emphasizing his commitment to the Springboks.
Brown himself expressed frustration over the timing of the coaching changes in New Zealand, hinting at missed opportunities. "100% yes," Brown responded during an interview with NewsTalk ZB when asked if he would consider an All Blacks role if not committed to South Africa. "It’s very frustrating [that timing hasn’t worked out]," he added, noting that his commitment to the Boks was set for four years and he intended to honor that.
With contract offers already dispatched to the assistant coaches, Oberholzer remains optimistic about finalizing the agreements promptly. "The process has begun, and the offers have been made," he stated. “We are now waiting for feedback so that we can finalize all this before the season starts, if we can.” As the Springboks gear up for another competitive season, securing the continuity of their coaching staff remains a top priority for SA Rugby.
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As the 2026 international rugby season approaches, SA Rugby is eager to secure the future of Rassie Erasmus’ assistant coaches, aiming to extend their contracts up to the 2031 Rugby World Cup. Notably, Tony Brown, a key figure in the Springboks' coaching lineup, remains committed despite rumors of a return to New Zealand following Scott Robertson's dismissal as the All Blacks head coach.
Rian Oberholzer, the CEO of SA Rugby, has made it clear that the organization expects Brown to honor his contract until 2027 and ideally, extend beyond. "He [Brown] and Rassie spoke [about the speculation]," Oberholzer revealed on the Rapport Praat Sport podcast. "Our position is very clear: he has a contract with us until 2027, and we expect him to stick to it."
"If we can keep him longer than 2027, it will be even better for us."
Since joining the Springboks after the 2023 World Cup, Brown has been instrumental in enhancing the team's offensive strategies, contributing significantly to their consecutive Rugby Championship victories and unbeaten end-of-year tours. Oberholzer admitted that losing Brown would significantly impact the team, praising his work ethic and rapport with the players.
The discussions about Brown’s future intensified following New Zealand Rugby’s decision to part with Robertson, sparking speculations about Brown potentially teaming up with Jamie Joseph, should he step in as the All Blacks' head coach. Despite these rumors, Brown has dismissed the possibility of an early departure, emphasizing his commitment to the Springboks.
Brown himself expressed frustration over the timing of the coaching changes in New Zealand, hinting at missed opportunities. "100% yes," Brown responded during an interview with NewsTalk ZB when asked if he would consider an All Blacks role if not committed to South Africa. "It’s very frustrating [that timing hasn’t worked out]," he added, noting that his commitment to the Boks was set for four years and he intended to honor that.
With contract offers already dispatched to the assistant coaches, Oberholzer remains optimistic about finalizing the agreements promptly. "The process has begun, and the offers have been made," he stated. “We are now waiting for feedback so that we can finalize all this before the season starts, if we can.” As the Springboks gear up for another competitive season, securing the continuity of their coaching staff remains a top priority for SA Rugby.