South Africa’s two-times winning World Cup Springbok captain Siya Kolisi has begun training with his new Top 14 club Racing 92, which is based in Paris, France.
This comes at the back of leading the Springboks to their second consecutive Webb Ellis Trophy and fourth Rugby World title.
After two weeks of celebrations and victory parades across Mzansi, it’s back to reality for the flanker who teamed up with his new side.
The Durban-based Sharks confirmed earlier this year that Kolisi had been granted an early release from his contract, to join the French club after the 2023 Rugby World Cup, and this was the most eagerly anticipated transfer in European rugby this year after his multi-year deal was announced in January.
“I started training on Tuesday, it’s exciting and it felt like the first day back at school.
“I’ve got a reputation, but it’s not my reputation that’s going to count on the pitch.
I need to prove myself, learn a new language and get to grips with a new culture.
“The day I leave the club, I want people to be able to say that I gave it my all,” said Kolisi.
He was welcomed by the club President Jacky Lorenzetti.
The 32-year-old has joined the Parisian club on a three-year deal but will only make his debut against La Rochelle in Paris on 26th November.
Kolisi’s Bok team-mate Trevor Nyakane is also playing for Racing.
Racing is second in the Top 14 and will travel, without Kolisi in the squad, to Toulon on Sunday.
