Sun 29 October 2023:
President Cyril Ramaphosa has commended the Springboks after their historic 2023 Rugby World Cup victory at the Stade de France on Saturday night.
The Springboks claimed their Rugby World Cup victory over New Zealand, making South Africa the first country to win the championship four times.
The President offered his congratulations to the team, as well as coaching team, the broader squad and the team management, and technical and support staff.
“Stronger Together is a belief that came to life for Springbok supporters all around our country and continent, and the world. Sport has the power to transform individuals’ lives and lift the spirits of entire nations.
“Tonight [Saturday], Siya Kolisi and the 2023 World Cup champions have gifted us an extraordinary, inspired and inspiring national achievement that lifts our hearts and hoists our flag even higher,” President Ramaphosa said.
President Ramaphosa also commended New Zealand for a hard-fought World Cup campaign that made the All Blacks deserving finalists.
Meanwhile, the President will on Monday address the nation on Monday at 8pm.
South Africa hung on to beat New Zealand in a tense 2023 Rugby World Cup final at the Stade de France in Paris, and in doing so they became the first side to win the tournament for a fourth time.#Bokke pic.twitter.com/5vDLsiI7Yu
— INDEPENDENT PRESS (@IpIndependent) October 29, 2023
Government congratulates World Cup champions
Government has joined millions of South Africans, Africans and Springbok fans from across the globe in congratulating the 2023 Rugby World Cup champions, after beating News Zealand during the tournament’s final at the Stade de France in Paris on Saturday night.
In this record-breaking victory, the Springboks showed determination, creativity and strength against New Zealand’s All Blacks.
South Africa’s unwavering confidence in the Springboks was symbolised by the presence of President Cyril Ramaphosa in France, to help the champions to lift the Webb Ellis trophy.
The national rugby side is the first team in a Rugby World Cup to win the tournament for a record fourth time.
Minister in The Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said the victory confirms South Africa’s highest standing in world rugby.
“The Springboks symbolise the resolve, resilience and unbreakable spirit of South Africans as a nation. Never has a team, which was once at the centre of dividing a nation, risen time and again to unite and rally the nation behind one flag, a single identity, and the nation brand.
“The Springboks represent something more than themselves; they unite us in our diversity but one nation. We are proud of the leadership of Captain Siya Kolisi, who led the mighty team to victory. We would also like to appreciate the support of South Africans of all works of life,” Ntshavheni said.
The Minister emphasised that supporting national teams is not just about the game, but “forging a collective spirit that extends beyond the field”.
“It’s about instilling a sense of pride in our national identity, reminding us of the incredible strength we possess when we stand together.”
She added that the Springbok’s have etched South Africa’s name in the annals of history.
“We are eternally proud of you Bokke! In your team effort, the camaraderie in your camp, and a truly South African vibe you carried, you demonstrated that indeed we are stronger together – you proved that to the more than 62 million of us and millions more from the African continent who stood behind you. We can’t wait to welcome you back home,” Ntshavheni said.
Government has also congratulated the All Blacks for their excellent display of rugby skill against the Springboks and commended all South Africans for rallying behind the team and supporting them through the nail-biting games.
– SAnews.gov.za
______________________________________________________________
FOLLOW INDEPENDENT PRESS:
WhatsApp CHANNEL
https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAtNxX8fewmiFmN7N22
TWITTER (CLICK HERE)
https://twitter.com/IpIndependent
FACEBOOK (CLICK HERE)
https://web.facebook.com/ipindependent
Think your friends would be interested? Share this story!