When the Springboks and Argentina clash in London this Saturday to wrap up the Rugby Championship, it will be the first time they face off against each on neutral territory.
At face value, it may seem like a somewhat strange situation, particularly considering this is effectively Argentina’s ‘home’ match, and while the Springboks may not say so publicly, they should be quite pleased to not be playing in Argentina where they have often struggled in the past.
In fact, considering the number of South African expats in the UK and London in particular, the Springboks will enjoy a big bulk of the support on Saturday, as was the case when they beat New Zealand 35-7 in a Rugby World Cup warm-up game in 2023, and Wales 41-13 last season.
Although the exact reasons for shifting this match to a ‘neutral venue’ have not been shared with the public, it is reported that the iconic Twickenham Stadium – with a capacity of 82,000 – stands to bring in a far bigger return at the turnstiles compared to the smaller Argentina stadiums.
Such a marquee match will also be additionally lucrative for the UAR considering ticket prices are also likely to be higher at Twickenham, while rugby matches in European markets are already reported to yield far greater revenue compared to similar events in South America, particularly when it comes to broadcast figures.
When the announcement was made, UAR President Gabriel Travaglini said they were thrilled about the match being hosted in London: “For the Argentina Rugby Union it is an honour that Los Pumas have the opportunity to face the Springboks – the current world champions – at the legendary Allianz Stadium, known as the Home of Rugby.
“We thank World Rugby and SANZAAR for this opportunity, which represents a recognition of the growth and level of our rugby and helps us to continue strengthening the development of Argentinean rugby.
“Undoubtedly, it will be an unforgettable experience for our players and a great opportunity to show our rugby to all the fans around the world.”
Springboks ready for London battle against Argentina
Saturday’s match kicks off at 15:00 (SA time), and the Springboks will be undeniable favourites.
“It’s always exciting to play in London and we look forward to facing Argentina in the UK for the first time in the Rugby Championship,” said Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus.
“We thoroughly enjoyed the experience of playing two neutral venue Test matches at the Allianz Stadium in the last two years, especially with the passionate crowd filling the ground and the large contingent of Springbok supporters based in the UK.
“We have no doubt this match is going to be another exciting spectacle given the intense battles between the Springboks and Los Pumas in the last few years, and we are looking forward to the challenge.”
GLOBAL AUDIENCE
Meanwhile, SANZAAR Chief Executive Brendan Morris commented” “The Rugby Championship is one of the world’s biggest and most prestigious international rugby tournaments, and it is exciting that we can take this big southern hemisphere clash between Argentina and South Africa to London.
“South Africa are the current world champions and incumbent Rugby Championship champions, while Argentina is now fifth in the world rankings. This is an exciting opportunity to showcase the Rugby Championship in the UK, and we look forward to a sell-out crowd and global broadcast audience.”
