In a bold move that underscores their ambitions, the Stormers have snagged Springboks powerhouse prop Wilco Louw from their arch-rivals, the Bulls. Set to rejoin the Stormers for the 2026/27 season, Louw's return to Cape Town is nothing short of a major coup for the team. This signing marks a significant statement of intent by the Stormers as they look to bolster their ranks with top-tier talent.
Louw, who initially left the Stormers in 2019 for a stint with Harlequins in England, where he clinched the Premiership Rugby trophy in 2021, is back after a brief spell with the Bulls. His comeback isn't just a routine transfer; it's a homecoming to the team where he first made his mark and to a city that he grew up in. With 46 caps for the Stormers and a robust international career, Louw’s return is anticipated to add substantial value both on and off the field.
"Wilco made his name as a DHL Stormer, he grew up in the region and has developed into one of the most respected props around the world,"
stated John Dobson, the Stormers' Director of Rugby.
"Bringing him back next season is a big move for us and we know that he will make a big impact once again. We pride ourselves on our scrum culture here and having someone of Wilco’s quality in the mix will only improve that,"
Dobson added.
Despite currently focusing on his commitments with the Bulls, Louw expressed his enthusiasm about his future with the Stormers.
"I am obviously focused on this season with my current team, but I am also excited about what the future holds for me back in Cape Town,"
Louw mentioned, highlighting his anticipation to rejoin the familiar setup in Cape Town and contribute positively both on and off the field.
In related news, the Stormers are also set to welcome back Oli Kebble, another former player, in a swap deal that sees Sti Sithole heading to Pretoria to join the Bulls. This strategic exchange underscores the Stormers' intent to strengthen their squad comprehensively.
As the Stormers gear up for future challenges, these strategic signings are clear indicators of their resolve to remain at the forefront of competitive rugby. With talents like Louw and Kebble on board, the Stormers are definitely upping the ante in the fiercely contested rugby arena.
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In a bold move that underscores their ambitions, the Stormers have snagged Springboks powerhouse prop Wilco Louw from their arch-rivals, the Bulls. Set to rejoin the Stormers for the 2026/27 season, Louw's return to Cape Town is nothing short of a major coup for the team. This signing marks a significant statement of intent by the Stormers as they look to bolster their ranks with top-tier talent.
Louw, who initially left the Stormers in 2019 for a stint with Harlequins in England, where he clinched the Premiership Rugby trophy in 2021, is back after a brief spell with the Bulls. His comeback isn't just a routine transfer; it's a homecoming to the team where he first made his mark and to a city that he grew up in. With 46 caps for the Stormers and a robust international career, Louw’s return is anticipated to add substantial value both on and off the field.
"Wilco made his name as a DHL Stormer, he grew up in the region and has developed into one of the most respected props around the world,"
stated John Dobson, the Stormers' Director of Rugby."Bringing him back next season is a big move for us and we know that he will make a big impact once again. We pride ourselves on our scrum culture here and having someone of Wilco’s quality in the mix will only improve that,"
Dobson added.Despite currently focusing on his commitments with the Bulls, Louw expressed his enthusiasm about his future with the Stormers.
"I am obviously focused on this season with my current team, but I am also excited about what the future holds for me back in Cape Town,"
Louw mentioned, highlighting his anticipation to rejoin the familiar setup in Cape Town and contribute positively both on and off the field.In related news, the Stormers are also set to welcome back Oli Kebble, another former player, in a swap deal that sees Sti Sithole heading to Pretoria to join the Bulls. This strategic exchange underscores the Stormers' intent to strengthen their squad comprehensively.
As the Stormers gear up for future challenges, these strategic signings are clear indicators of their resolve to remain at the forefront of competitive rugby. With talents like Louw and Kebble on board, the Stormers are definitely upping the ante in the fiercely contested rugby arena.