The Rugby Championship U20 is set to return to Gqeberha at the end of April, with matches once again taking place at the iconic Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium.
The tournament will feature Under-20 sides from South Africa, New Zealand, Australia, and Argentina, as the four rugby nations fine-tune their squads ahead of the World Rugby U20 Championship in Georgia later this year.
The competition kicks off on Freedom Day (27 April), with additional match days scheduled for 3 May and 9 May. Each round will feature double-header fixtures, offering fans a full day of exciting youth international rugby.
Last year’s edition proved pivotal in developing emerging stars, with the Junior Boks going on to face New Zealand in the global final. South Africa, led by Riley Norton, ultimately lifted the world title, underlining the tournament’s importance as a pathway to elite international rugby.
South African Rugby Union CEO Rian Oberholzer highlighted the significance of bringing the tournament back to the Eastern Cape, praising the region’s deep rugby roots and passionate supporters. He noted that the success of last year’s event, combined with the world-class facilities at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium, made Gqeberha the natural choice to host once again.
Meanwhile, SANZAAR CEO Brendan Morris emphasized the competition’s role in developing not just players, but also coaches and match officials, providing invaluable exposure at international level.
Tickets for the tournament will start at just R35 per person per day, granting access to both matches on each matchday. Supporters can purchase tickets exclusively via Ticketmaster.
Gqeberha’s rugby calendar doesn’t end there. The city will also host another major international fixture later this year when South Africa national rugby union team take on the Barbarians at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium on 20 June to kick off their 2026 season.
Fixtures:
Monday, 27 April
New Zealand vs Australia – 14:00
Junior Boks vs Argentina – 16:10
Sunday, 3 May
New Zealand vs Argentina – 14:00
Junior Boks vs Australia – 16:10
Saturday, 9 May
Argentina vs Australia – 14:00
Junior Boks vs New Zealand – 16:10