Willie le Roux is not everyone’s cup of tea, but the fact that two World Cup-winning coaches both consider him a super asset in their ranks is the only testimonial he really needs.
Rassie Erasmus has already confirmed that Le Roux is still part of his plans heading into the 2027 World Cup tournament, while Jake White fought hard – and has now won that battle – to retain the services of this experienced and visionary fullback at the Bulls.
The Blue Bulls Company have just announced that the 35-year-old Le Roux – he turns 36 in August – has signed a contract extension with the franchise until June 2027.
“South Africa will always be my home, but my teammates at the Bulls have been a big reason behind the decision to stay. Hopefully, I can continue to guide some of the passionate younger players that are coming through over the next two years,” said Le Roux after the news broke.
Since arriving in the capital at the end of the 2023 Rugby World Cup, Le Roux has made 29 appearances across the United Rugby Championship (24) and the Investec Champions Cup (5) and is now signed to further add to that tally of caps for the Pretoria franchise.
“This is an unreal stadium to play in. It’s always been one of my favourites, because you can’t beat the vibe that the supporters bring every week. The club is special because of its fans and just what it means to put on its jersey every week we play,” he reflected on his time at Loftus thus far.
According to Le Roux, reaching the URC Grand Final in his first year with the Bulls and a very special semi-final win at Loftus against a brilliant Leinster side, as well as being able to win the URC SA Shield, are all among his top highlights thus far. Now he looks ahead to more of these special memories.
White, the Bulls’ Director of Rugby, emphasized the need to keep stalwarts like le Roux in South Africa.
“It is great to be able to have him extend with us. This is what our rugby needs – experienced campaigners to share their IP with the next crop of players. In his short time with us, Willie has proven to us all just how important he is to what we are trying to achieve. I am sure his extension will be welcomed news to everyone, including players, coaches and our loyal fans,” White remarked.
Le Roux and his teammates currently sit third on the league table, targeting a run all the way to the end. Meanwhile, in the EPCR Challenge Cup competition, his teammates will battle French side Aviron Bayonnais in a round of 16 clash and Le Roux says this is just the start of an all-important three-month period for the side.
“The next 12 weeks are very important for us because when you’re in knockout stages, there are no second chances, when you’re out, you’re out, but we are ready for the challenge,” he commented.
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