Brendan Venter’s second spell in charge of Saracens has barely started – and the club have already been hit with a fine.
The South African has returned as Director of Rugby after Mark McCall stepped down following 15 seasons in charge.
Venter previously held the role before McCall took over and has remained involved with the club as a technical adviser ever since.
However, his return to the top job has already produced one off-field issue.
According to RugbyPass, Saracens were fined £5,000 after Venter was the only Director of Rugby not to attend the Gallagher PREM season launch at Twickenham.
And he was missing from media duties again this week.
Head coach Joe Shaw was left to front the midweek calls ahead of Saracens’ opening Gallagher PREM game against Leicester Tigers.
Venter begins second spell
Saracens confirmed earlier this year that Venter would return to the Director of Rugby role for the 2026/27 season, with McCall remaining involved as a technical adviser and board member.
His first league game comes against Leicester Tigers at Mattioli Woods Welford Road on Sunday, with kick-off at 3pm.
It is a tough place for Venter to start his second spell – and a ground which already features prominently in his colourful Saracens history.
Venter's history with the media
Anyone who remembers Venter’s first spell at Saracens probably won't be too surprised by his reluctance to take centre stage.
The former Springbok became responsible for one of rugby’s most bizarre television interviews in 2010, repeatedly giving deliberately short answers following a European defeat.
His disciplinary record also included a 14-week ban following an incident during a Saracens trip to Leicester.
Venter was later fined €25,000 – with €15,000 suspended – following comments about referee Christophe Berdos.
RugbyPass revisited Venter’s eventful first spell this week ahead of his return to Gallagher PREM action.
Sixteen years later, Venter is back.
And the new season hasn't even started yet.
