Sport, Arts and Culture Minister Gayton McKenzie has made a direct appeal to South Africans who still support the New Zealand All Blacks, urging them to put old loyalties aside and get behind the Springboks.
Speaking at the 19th annual SA Sports Awards at Sun City, McKenzie acknowledged that some South Africans have historically supported New Zealand because of the complicated history surrounding the Springbok emblem.
However, he believes the modern Springboks represent a very different South Africa — one that is more united and reflective of the country’s transformation.
‘Patriotism must come first’
McKenzie, who has previously admitted that he supported the All Blacks himself, called on South Africans to switch allegiances during the ongoing Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry series.
“I understand that you are hurt. That’s why you’re supporting the All Blacks. I used to support the All Blacks myself,” he said.
“But there comes a time and a place in everybody’s life where patriotism must come first.”
He then challenged All Blacks supporters to trade their black jerseys for the green and gold of the Springboks.
“This is your country. This is our country,” McKenzie said.
Siya Kolisi highlighted as symbol of change
McKenzie pointed to Springbok captain Siya Kolisi as an example of how much South African rugby has changed.
Kolisi became the first Black player to captain South Africa in a Test match when he took over the captaincy in 2018. He subsequently led the Springboks to Rugby World Cup triumphs in 2019 and 2023.
For McKenzie, Kolisi’s rise is evidence that the national team can now represent South Africans who once felt excluded from the Springbok identity.
“The captain of the Springboks is a Black from the Eastern Cape, Siya Kolisi. He’s your child. He’s my child,” McKenzie said.
He urged supporters to recognise that change and embrace the national team.
“You’ve made your point. We’ve heard you. But now is the time to don your Springbok jersey,” he added.
McKenzie once backed New Zealand
The minister’s appeal carries added weight because he has previously been open about his own support for the All Blacks.
During the 2015 Rugby World Cup, McKenzie publicly declared that he would support New Zealand rather than South Africa.
His stance has since changed, particularly as the Springboks have continued to evolve under coach Rassie Erasmus.
McKenzie previously reflected on how rugby support had shifted, particularly among Western Cape fans who once strongly backed New Zealand.
Rivalry adds extra significance
His latest comments come as South Africa and New Zealand contest a historic four-Test series — the first dedicated series between the two rugby giants in three decades.
The All Blacks won the opening encounter 33-16 at Ellis Park, ending the Springboks’ 12-match winning streak.
South Africa responded emphatically in Cape Town, winning 33-26 to level the series at 1-1.
The third Test is scheduled for 5 September at FNB Stadium in Johannesburg, adding even more significance to McKenzie’s call for South Africans to unite behind the Springboks.
For McKenzie, the bigger story goes beyond the result on the rugby field.
“Let us let bygones be bygones. Let us forget the past. We are Springboks, and Springboks are us,” he said.
He argued that the Springboks’ journey demonstrates what South Africa can achieve when people unite.
With the series level at 1-1, will South Africa rally behind the Springboks — including those who have traditionally supported the All Blacks?
