The City of Johannesburg is poised to once again take its place as a premier destination for global sport as it prepares to host a highly anticipated international rugby match.
The Springboks will face their long-standing rivals, the Wallabies of Australia, in a Castle Lager Rugby Championship Test match on Saturday, 16 August 2025, at the iconic Emirates Airline Park [Ellis Park Stadium].
This fixture marks a significant occasion for the City, bringing a high-profile international sporting event back to the heart of Johannesburg. The match is expected to draw a large number of spectators, both local and international, injecting a crucial boost into the tourism and hospitality sectors.
“The event highlights the City’s capacity to host world-class sporting spectacles and reinforces its reputation as a vibrant hub of activity and culture,” says Cllr Dada Morero, the Executive Mayor.
The Lions Rugby Company, which manages the stadium, has expressed its honour at hosting the reigning Rugby World Champions.
“This event will not only celebrate the rich history of the Springboks at Ellis Park but also serve as a powerful economic catalyst, generating excitement and pride among residents and a substantial return on investment for the local economy,” says the Lions Rugby Company.
For rugby enthusiasts, the clash between these two storied rivals promises to be a thrilling encounter. The City of Johannesburg encourages all residents and visitors to secure their seats and be part of this memorable occasion, which celebrates the unifying power of sport and the City’s enduring spirit.
Written by Thandeka Mahlaba