Rassie Erasmus has shut down talk of the Springboks joining the Six Nations, suggesting the northern hemisphere isn’t ready for South Africa – and may never be.
The world champions currently compete in the Rugby Championship alongside New Zealand, Australia and Argentina, but speculation has refused to go away over a potential switch to Europe’s elite tournament.
However, according to Rapport, those discussions have now collapsed. SA Rugby are understood to have failed to strike a deal with Six Nations investors CVC Capital Partners.
CVC, who play a major financial role in the competition, announced a £365million long-term investment in 2021. With that avenue seemingly closed, reports claim SA Rugby have opened talks with US-based Ackerley Partners, who are considering their own investment into the game.
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The upcoming 2026 Nations Championships introduced by World Rugby makes such a move even more unlikely, adding another layer of complexity to any potential expansion.
It would be a move that sends shockwaves through the rugby world – but Erasmus isn’t buying into the hype.
“Us joining the Six Nations? I’m not sure how that sits with other people,” Erasmus said.
“We admire the competition – when I was at Munster, I saw how big it really is.”
While fans might salivate at the idea of South Africa clashing with England, Ireland, or France every year, Erasmus sees a major obstacle – tradition.
“There are a lot of traditions that are more valuable than us just fitting in,” he added.
“This is a competition with deep heritage. I’m not sure if we can just walk in and be accepted.”
🏉 2026 Six Nations Fixtures: Round-by-Round Guide
ROUND 1
Thursday 5th February 2026
🇫🇷 France v Ireland
📍 Venue TBC
🕗 Kick-off: 8:10pm
Saturday 7th February 2026
🇮🇹 Italy v Scotland
📍 Stadio Olimpico, Rome
🕑 Kick-off: 2:10pm
🏟️ England v Wales
📍 Allianz Stadium, Twickenham
🕟 Kick-off: 4:40pm
ROUND 2
Saturday 14th February 2026
☘️ Ireland v Italy
📍 Aviva Stadium, Dublin
🕑 Kick-off: 2:10pm
🏴 Scotland v England
📍 Murrayfield, Edinburgh
🕟 Kick-off: 4:40pm
Sunday 15th February 2026
🐉 Wales v France
📍 Principality Stadium, Cardiff
🕒 Kick-off: 3:10pm
