At SportPesa, we see sport as a powerful force for opportunity, unity, and community pride. Our growing footprint in South African rugby reflects this belief. From backing elite teams to strengthening university pathways and supporting fan-first experiences, our mission is to help rugby thrive at every level.
Partnership with the DHL Stormers
SportPesa’s commitment to top-tier rugby was elevated in 2025 when we became the official betting partner of the DHL Stormers for the 2025/26 season. The partnership goes beyond traditional sponsorship: it is about deepening engagement, elevating matchday experiences, and celebrating the spirit of one of South Africa’s most iconic rugby brands.
SportPesa branding features on the Stormers’ kit, but the collaboration is defined by more than visibility. We are working with the team to bring supporters closer to the players they admire through:
- Ticket giveaways and matchday hospitality
- Digital competitions and fan activations
- Exclusive opportunities to meet Stormers players
- Community-centred campaigns under our #MakeItCount banner
This approach reflects SportPesa’s fan-first philosophy. As Gareth Rosslee, SportPesa South Africa’s Head of Marketing said, the goal is to create experiences that “go beyond the 80 minutes” – celebrating local pride and honouring the supporters who bring the game to life.
Our partnership aligns with the Stormers’ ethos of accessibility, inclusivity, and excellence. Their ability to unite diverse communities across the Western Cape mirrors SportPesa’s ambition to support teams that inspire and uplift.
National Sponsorship of the FNB Varsity Cup
In January 2026, SportPesa became the National Sponsor of the FNB Varsity Cup, marking a major step forward in supporting South Africa’s next generation of rugby talent.
The Varsity Cup plays a vital role in shaping the student-athlete pipeline, balancing academic achievement with high-performance competition. SportPesa’s involvement strengthens this mission through support that enhances:
- Player development pathways
- High-quality competition environments
- Opportunities for both men’s and women’s university teams
- Broader community upliftment and long-term athlete development
Lisa Roux, Sponsorship Manager at ASEM, described the partnership as “an incredibly exciting step” that aligns perfectly with the tournament’s vision for growth and opportunity.
Our existing investment in South African rugby – including our partnership with the Stormers – made this a natural extension of our ethos.
From University to Professional Level
SportPesa’s rugby partnerships are creating opportunities across all levels of the sport:
- Varsity Cup athletes gain exposure, competitive experience, and a pathway into elite rugby structures.
- Stormers partnerships ensure professional-level support, performance innovation, and stronger community connections.
- Fan-first activations ensure the sport remains accessible, inclusive, and deeply rooted in local culture.
By supporting the sport from grassroots to professional, SportPesa helps shape a stronger, more sustainable future for South African rugby.
SportPesa’s mission extends far beyond headline sponsorships. We channel investment into programmes that enhance participation, inspire future athletes, and uplift local communities. Our work in South Africa includes:
- Supporting grassroots sports development
- Uplifting amateur and emerging athletes
- Backing community-based competitions
- Enabling fans to connect more meaningfully with the teams they love
Each initiative reflects a long-term vision to empower individuals, strengthen sports communities, and create opportunities where they are needed most.
Building a Legacy in South African Rugby
For SportPesa, investing in South African rugby is about unlocking opportunity, and helping the sport continue to unite communities across the country.
Through our partnership with the Stormers, transformative sponsorship of the FNB Varsity Cup, and ongoing investment in fan engagement and grassroots talent, we are committed to growing rugby at every level.
