Fifth South African team set to join URC

, talks are currently in progress that could pave the way for the Free State side’s return to the URC, with more clarity possibly coming as early as today.

According to Netwerk24

“Positive noises are being made,” a source said.

Another senior rugby administrator told Netwerk24 that a potential comeback is “part of the discussion,” although “there’s still a long way to go”.

This possible development is thought to be tied to Wales’ intention to cut its number of URC teams from four to three, which could open up a spot and offer the Cheetahs a route back in.

After SANZAAR decided to reduce team numbers for 2018, the South African Rugby Union confirmed that the Cheetahs would be among those dropped from that year’s competition.

They subsequently joined the Pro14, previously limited to Northern Hemisphere teams, ahead of the 2017–18 season.

Travel restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic meant the Cheetahs could not take part in the 2020–21 Pro14 season. Instead, they competed in Super Rugby Unlocked in late 2020 and the Preparation Series in early 2021.

They were later excluded from the Pro14 Rainbow Cup, and when the competition was rebranded as the United Rugby Championship for the 2021–22 season, the team was again not included.

Since then, the Bloemfontein-based side has largely existed on the periphery of top-tier rugby, competing mainly in the Currie Cup, SA Cup, Toyota Challenge, and EPCR Challenge Cup.

Their recent signing of Faf de Klerk for next season surprised many, with questions raised about how a team outside the top competitions secured such a high-profile player despite strong interest elsewhere.

Cheetahs director of rugby Frans Steyn has also previously indicated interest in joining Super Rugby, and with Moana Pasifika withdrawing from that competition, another potential opportunity could emerge for the South African outfit.