Few Mzansi moments are as iconic and culturally significant as Francois Pienaar lifting the Web Ellis Cup alongside Nelson Mandela after the Springbok’s 15-12 victory over the All Blacks.
It’s an image that speaks a thousand words – a symbol for a new, integrated South Africa. Mandela knew the importance of sports and boy, did it deliver.
“It’s impossible to describe how important that victory was to everybody in South Africa,” said the former Springbok captain. Pienaar was inducted to World Rugby’s Hall of Fame in 2011 and will go down as one of the greatest ever to don the green and gold.
What is he doing now?
It’s not only on the pitch where the 58-year-old has made a long-lasting impact, Piennaar founded the Varsity Cup, which has become a melting pot for Springbok talent.
“50% of the players from the Boks 2023 World Cup played in the varsity cup’ and added that it has been incredible to see the development of talent,” he noted. “The varsity sports initiative now includes football and netball, offering a stage for young talent across various sports and not only rugby.”
Additionally, the Vereeniging-native has veered towards charity work and philanthropy; “As sportsmen we’re blessed to represent our country on the international stage and to see the power of sport,” Pienaar mentioned while participating in Gary Player’s player invitational which raises money for Blair Atholl Pre-Primary School.
“But this weekend you also see the love Mr Player has for giving back and the love [Player’s late wife] Vivienne had for giving back. The school they founded is remarkable and that is what you want to see with greats like Mr Player.
“But all any of us here are trying to do is a little something to help. We have a debt incurred in life to help people.”
What is your favourite Pienaar-Springbok moment?
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