South African President Cyril Ramaphosa announced on Monday that December 15, 2023, will be observed as a public holiday to celebrate the country’s Rugby World Cup triumph.
The Springboks clinched a record fourth Rugby World Cup title on Saturday, defeating long-time rivals New Zealand 12–11 in the final.
Ecstatic supporters across South Africa had earlier called for a holiday to mark the national team’s historic achievement, and their wish has now been granted — though the celebration will take place more than a month after the victory.
“In celebration of the Springboks’ momentous achievement and in honour of all our other sportsmen and women, I’m declaring Friday, the 15th of December 2023, as a public holiday,” President Ramaphosa said in a televised address to the nation.
The announcement followed widespread jubilation across the country as fans celebrated the Springboks’ success in becoming the first team to win four Rugby World Cup titles.
