The All Blacks have confirmed their South African tour for 2026's test matches. Image by REUTERS
Tour organisers confirmed late Thursday that New Zealand will embark on a four-Test tour of South Africa in August and September 2026 their first major multi-match tour of the country in three decades. In total, the All Blacks will play eight matches, including clashes with South Africa’s four United Rugby Championship franchises.
Three of the four Test matches will be hosted in South Africa at Ellis Park and FNB Stadium in Johannesburg, and Cape Town Stadium while the fourth and final Test will be played at a neutral venue, with Twickenham in London emerging as the favourite.
All Blacks and Springbok new agreement
The tour rekindles a rivalry that stretches back over a century and includes two Rugby World Cup finals. It also marks the start of a new agreement between the nations, which will see the Boks and All Blacks alternate four-yearly tours, with South Africa set to visit New Zealand in 2030.
“This fierce competition between two proud nations has produced more than a hundred years of drama and unforgettable moments,” said SA Rugby CEO Rian Oberholzer. “We saw last year how much it means for our supporters to host the All Blacks, and we can’t wait to welcome them again. Fans can expect drama, intensity, and world-class rugby in one of the sport’s greatest rivalries.”
Springbok captain Siya Kolisi echoed the excitement, calling the upcoming tour “something huge” for players and fans alike.
“These are the kind of tours we have only heard stories about,” said Kolisi. “To be part of it is incredible. The energy, the passion it is going to be something this generation of players and supporters will never forget. Let’s get behind it and show the world who we are.”
2026 Tour Fixtures
Friday, 7 August: Stormers vs New Zealand – Cape Town Stadium, Cape Town
Tuesday, 11 August: Sharks vs New Zealand – Kings Park, Durban
Saturday, 15 August: Bulls vs New Zealand – Loftus Versfeld, Pretoria
Saturday, 22 August: 1st Test – South Africa vs New Zealand – Ellis Park, Johannesburg
Tuesday, 25 August: Lions vs New Zealand – Ellis Park, Johannesburg
Saturday, 29 August: 2nd Test – South Africa vs New Zealand – Cape Town Stadium, Cape Town
Saturday, 5 September: 3rd Test – South Africa vs New Zealand – FNB Stadium, Johannesburg
Saturday, 12 September: 4th Test – South Africa vs New Zealand – venue to be announced
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