South African Rugby President Mark Alexander has announced that the union’s lawyers, together with an independent transaction advisor, will finalise the details of a Request for Proposal (RFP) before SARU explores the market for an equity partner. He made the statement at the launch of a new energy drink sponsorship deal in Johannesburg to help take South African rugby to new heights. With South African rugby enjoying strong national support and new sponsors coming on board, the latest partnership with an energy drink company with a significant presence in adventure sports marks their first venture into rugby. Alexander confirms that SARU’s finances are in a healthy state, and this new deal will provide additional support. “We continue to talk about financial pressures in SA Rugby, but we are a break-even business. We don’t have a reserve fund, which is a problem. However, compared to the rest of the world’s top rugby teams, we are the best placed, and this exciting sponsorship will certainly help us.” SARU’s plan to elevate South African rugby requires capital investment, which is why they are exploring potential partners. Alexander explains that in 2023, SARU received an unsolicited offer from ASG and CDC, but members voted against accepting it in December. SARU is now appointing an independent advisor to assess rugby’s needs and determine the appropriate transactions before issuing the RFP. Springbok player Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, who attended the ceremony, provides an update on his recovery from an injury sustained in December. While he is recovering well, Feinberg-Mngomezulu is uncertain about his return date, saying, “It’s still unclear. I’m working hard to come back as soon as possible without setting any expectations.” Other Springbok players, including Willie Le Roux and Ox Nche, also attended the sponsorship event. 🤝 𝕊𝔸 ℝ𝕌𝔾𝔹𝕐 𝕏 𝕄𝕆ℕ𝕊𝕋𝔼ℝ 🤝 SA Rugby president Mark Alexander has today announced a four-year sponsorship deal with energy drink manufacturers Monster Energy. 🎥 SABC Sport’s @CKlatey #SABCSportRugby pic.twitter.com/DdFE5GGZcQ — SABC Sport (@SABC_Sport) February 16, 2025