Castle Double Malt today took its place at the heart of Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry, becoming the Title Partner of one of world sport’s most celebrated sporting properties and marking the most significant chapter yet in the brand’s journey into South African rugby.
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Bringing fans closer to the action
The title partnership will bring supporters closer to Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry than ever before through one of the biggest fan engagement programmes associated with the series. Plans include nationwide watch parties and a host of immersive experiences designed to celebrate one of rugby’s greatest contests, with further details to be announced in due course.
A spectacular launch at FNB Stadium
At Johannesburg’s iconic FNB Stadium, the next chapter of Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry unfolded before rugby legends, current Springboks, representatives from SA Rugby and New Zealand Rugby, members of the media and guests.
Hosted by former Springbok and broadcaster Gcobani Bobo, the launch opened with an Impi Zulu warrior performance, whose rhythmic energy and unmistakable sense of national pride set the tone for the occasion.
Honouring the past, present and future
Across three carefully curated conversations, the launch celebrated Castle Double Malt’s Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry through its past, present and future.
Leaders from South African Breweries, SA Rugby and New Zealand Rugby explored the significance of Castle Double Malt’s title partnership before Springbok legends Bakkies Botha and Bismarck du Plessis joined former All Blacks captain Sean Fitzpatrick. They reflected on defining moments, unforgettable encounters and the enduring spirit that has shaped more than a century of rugby history.
The spotlight then shifted to the future as current Springboks Kwagga Smith and Lukhanyo Am looked ahead to the upcoming fixtures and the opportunity to add their own chapter to one of world sport’s greatest rivalries.
A rivalry like no other
Since first meeting in 1921, the Springboks and All Blacks have contested more than 100 Test matches. Between them, they have won seven men’s Rugby World Cup titles and established a rivalry recognised around the world for the exceptional standard it continues to set.
Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry is defined not only by hard-hitting tackles but also by the qualities that shape greatness—extraordinary skill, composure, sportsmanship and the mutual respect earned between worthy opponents. It’s the kind of play that makes fans say, “That’s extra smooth.”
These are the qualities Castle Double Malt celebrates as the Official Title Partner of Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry.
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SA Rugby welcomes the partnership
Rian Oberholzer, CEO of SA Rugby, welcomed the partnership with enthusiasm.
“Few rivalries in world sport have challenged generations of players to raise their standards quite like the Springboks and All Blacks. Castle Double Malt understands what makes this contest so special—not only the intensity on the field, but the values that have defined it for more than a century.
“We’re delighted to welcome the brand as Title Partner and look forward to creating unforgettable experiences for supporters throughout the series.”
A defining milestone for Castle Double Malt
Vaughan Croeser, Vice President of Marketing at South African Breweries, described the announcement as a landmark moment for the brand.
“Becoming the Title Partner of Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry marks a defining milestone for Castle Double Malt. We’ve always believed extraordinary things happen when two greats come together, and few partnerships embody that belief more naturally than the Springboks and All Blacks.
“For more than a century, these two great rugby nations have brought out the very best in one another through extraordinary skill, composure and an unwavering pursuit of excellence. We’re proud to celebrate that legacy while bringing supporters closer to Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry than ever before.”
The spirit beyond the final whistle
Reflecting on the occasion, Gcobani highlighted the respect that exists beyond the fierce competition on the field.
“People see the intensity on the field, but not always what happens afterwards—the conversations, the friendships and the admiration between opponents who understand exactly what they’ve been through. Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry isn’t only about eighty minutes. It’s about the stories that live long after the final whistle.”
Former All Blacks captain Sean Fitzpatrick echoed those sentiments.
“There was never a tougher challenge than facing the Springboks. Every Test demanded everything you had. But that’s what made the rivalry so special. It pushed both teams to become better, and the regard that exists between those who’ve lived it is something you carry for life. It’s wonderful to see that spirit celebrated through this partnership.”
Celebrating rugby at its smoothest
As Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry draws closer, Castle Double Malt begins celebrating the moments that define the game at its smoothest—and roughest—from breathtaking displays of skill and composure to the gees and camaraderie that have inspired generations of rugby supporters.
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