Early access for Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry Tour announced

South African rugby fans can officially start planning ahead: the legendary All Blacks are heading back to Mzansi in August and September 2026 for an epic eight-match tour that will reignite one of sport’s most intense rivalries, with Johannesburg hosting some of the tour’s biggest moments.

Branded as Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry Tour, the 2026 showdown promises weeks of high-stakes rugby as New Zealand’s All Blacks face off against South Africa’s top franchises, culminating in a four Test series against the Springboks.

While the first whistle only blows in August 2026, fans can already secure an advantage. Priority access registrations are now open, offering first access to tickets, exclusive match bundles, and pre-sale offers. The pre-sale opens on Thursday, 29 January, at 10am, with general sales following on Monday, 2 February, at 10am.

The tour kicks off in Cape Town on Friday, 7 August 2026, with the DHL Stormers taking on the All Blacks at DHL Stadium, before moving to Durban and Pretoria to face the Sharks and Bulls, respectively.

From there, the spotlight shifts to the Springboks as the rivalry truly heats up. Ellis Park Stadium will host the first Test on 22 August, when the Springboks meet the All Blacks in what’s guaranteed to be a sell-out. And, yes, unlike certain much-talked-about concerts, this Ellis Park event is very much happening.

Joburg gets a second bite at the cherry just days later. On 25 August, the Lions take on the All Blacks at Ellis Park, giving local fans a rare chance to see the visitors tested by a home franchise in the City of Gold.

The action then moves back to Cape Town for the second Test before returning to Johannesburg’s biggest stage. On Saturday, 5 September 2026, FNB Stadium will host a historic double-header: the Springbok Women vs the Black Ferns in a Women’s Test, followed by the third Test between the Springboks and All Blacks later that day.

The final Test on Saturday, 12 September 2026, will take place at a venue still to be announced, rounding off what promises to be one of the biggest rugby tours South Africa has hosted in years.

Whether you’re a die-hard rugby fan or just keen to be part of sporting history, this is one tour you won’t want to miss, and with tickets expected to fly, early access is key.

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