Sharks talisman Siya Kolisi has confirmed he will join Racing 92 after the completion of the Rugby World Cup in France.
The Durban franchise has granted the Springbok captain early release from his contract in order to join the French giants after the global showcase later this year.
Since joining the Sharks in 2021, Kolisi has played some of his best rugby and was recently named captain for the European Champions Cup tournament.
“It has been an incredible collaborative effort between the Sharks and Racing 92 that has enabled me to start a new chapter in my career after the 2023 World Cup,” read Kolisi’s statement in part.
“I want to give a massive thanks to the Sharks for welcoming me with open arms in 2021, and for making me feel so at home in Durban, while their support over the last couple of years has been hugely influential during a key period in my career.
“I am immensely appreciative that the Sharks have given me their blessing to make this move, and it goes without saying that I will continue to give my all for the team over the next few months.”
Rugby365 reports that Kolisi’s move is part of a long-term collaboration between the Sharks and Racing 92. The partnership includes quarterly meetings between owners and management about sharing resources, including players.
Sharks CEO Eduard Coetzee wished the World Cup-winning captain well on his future journeys.
“Siyamthanda has been an instrumental and much-loved member of the Sharks family since his arrival two years ago,” said Coetzee.
“His well-documented and commendable leadership qualities extend far beyond the playing field and this is none more so evident than his involvement with the launch of the Players First programme, as well as his commitment to the expansion of the Sharks brand to a global market.
“His move to France is a new and exciting opportunity and we could not be happier for him.
“We are blessed to have him don the black and white jersey and we know that over the next few months, he will continue to give back to the team and our fans.”
