Rassie Erasmus to Receive the Order of Ikhamanga 

There are coaches, and then there’s Rassie Erasmus. He is the man who has united the nation and ensured that rugby is flowing through the veins of South Africans everywhere. He is set to receive the Order of Ikhamanga in Gold on the 19th of May 2026. This prestigious award is a fitting tribute to a coach who’s become a national icon. 

This award recognises Erasmus for his genius on the rugby pitch, his leadership of the Springboks, and the way he’s used rugby to bring us together as a nation. President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to hand over the award at a ceremony next week. 

A Coach Who Changed South African Rugby 

From the moment he took over the Springboks in 2018, Erasmus has turned them into a powerhouse. With two back-to-back World Cup titles (2019 and 2023) under his belt, he’s ensured that South Africa has become one of the greatest rugby nations in the world. 

But Presidency Director-General Phindile Baleni highlighted that Erasmus’ influence goes beyond the scoreboard and trophies. He has shaped Springbok culture just as much as he’s influenced their winning streak. 

“His inspirational leadership in national and international rugby has propelled the Springboks to repeated Rugby World Cup championships,” she said. 

“Victory on the field of play has advanced social cohesion among South Africans and raised the nation’s esteem in the international community.” 

What Is the Order of Ikhamanga? 

The Order of Ikhamanga is awarded to South Africans who are top achievers in sport, arts, culture, and journalism. It’s awarded in three tiers: Gold, Silver, and Bronze. Gold, the award Erasmus will be receiving, recognises truly exceptional achievements. This places him among some of South Africa’s most celebrated sports and cultural icons.  

Erasmus is following in the footsteps of Springbok captain Siya Kolisi. Kolisi was awarded the Order of Ikhamanga in 2023 after he brought home the World Cup trophy. 

More Than Just Rugby 

Rassie is more than a coach; he’s the guy who has given South Africa its “gees” back. From nail-biting World Cup wins to building emotional connections with the fans, he has created a team that people believe in again.  

When he heard about the award, he kept it humble as usual, calling it a total “wow moment”. He made sure to share the credit with the communities and people who backed him from the start. 

“Everyone contributes to something like this, I am extremely proud,” Erasmus said. “It’s a ‘wow’ moment for me, genuinely.” 

A Legacy Still Growing 

The best part is that Rasmus is far from finished. With his contract locked in through 2027, we’ve got at least another four years of his mastermind at work. So, lucky for us, the Springboks aren’t slowing down anytime soon. 

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