INSIDE POLITICS REPORTER
President Cyril Ramaphosa commended the Springboks on their Rugby World Cup 12-11 victory over New Zealand which makes South Africa the first country to win this championship four times.
Ramaphosa offered his congratulations to the team who performed at the Stade de France on Saturday evening, as well as coaching team, the broader squad and the team management and technical and support staff.
“Stronger Together is a belief that came to life for Springbok supporters all around our country and continent, and the world.
“Sport has the power to transform individuals the lives and lift the spirits of entire nations.
“Tonight, Siya Kolisi and the 2023 World Cup champions have gifted us an extraordinary, inspired and inspiring national achievement that lifts our hearts and hoists our Flag even higher,” he said.
He also took the opportunity to congratulate New Zealand for what he called “a hard-fought World Cup campaign that made the All Blacks deserving finalists.”
Ramaphosa arrived in France on Saturday to cheer on and show support to the Springboks in their quest to retain the Webb Ellis Rugby World Cup.
The government has joins millions of South Africans, Africans and Springbok fans from across the globe in congratulating the World Rugby 2023 champions.
Minister in The Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said the record breaking victory, the Springboks showed determination, creativity and strength against New Zealand’s All Blacks.
She said the unwavering confidence in the Springboks was symbolised by the presence of Ramaphosa in France to help the team to lift the Webb Ellis trophy.
South Africa’ national rugby side is the first team in a Rugby World Cup to win the tournament for a record fourth time and to lift the Webb Ellis Trophy back-to-back.
Ntshavheni, said: “This victory confirms South Africa’s highest standing in world rugby. The Springboks symbolise the resolve, resilience and unbreakable spirit of South Africans as a nation. Never has a team, which was once at the centre of dividing a nation, has risen time and again to unite and rally the nation behind one flag, a single identity, and the nation brand. The Springboks represent something more than themselves; they unite us in our diversity but one nation. We are proud of the leadership of Captain Siya Kolisi, who led the mighty team to victory. We would also like to appreciate the support of South Africans of all works of life. Supporting our national teams is not just about the game, it’s about forging a collective spirit that extends beyond the field. It’s about instilling a sense of pride in our national identity, reminding us of the incredible strength we possess when we stand together.”
The Springbok’s have etched South Africa’s name in the annals of history.
“We are eternally proud of you Bokke! In your team effort, the camaraderie in your camp, and a truly South African vibe you carried, you demonstrated that indeed we are stronger together – you proved that to the more than 62 million of us and millions more from the African continent who stood behind you. We can’t wait to welcome you back home,” said Ntshavheni.
Government also thanks all South Africans for rallying behind the team, and supporting them through the nail-biting games.
For that show of support, she said “the Webb Ellis is in South Africa’s kant!! #StrongTogether #Amabokoboko”.
INSIDE POLITICS
