Springbok speedster Cheslin Kolbe is heading back to the Stormers.

• Springbok utility back Cheslin Kolbe’s return to Cape Town has been confirmed.
• Kolbe left the Stormers in 2017 to play club rugby in France before heading to Japan in 2023.
• The World Cup winner thanked the Tokyo Suntory Sungoliath management and players for making his time in Japan special.
• For more rugby news, visit our dedicated section.

Springbok star Cheslin Kolbe has confirmed his move back to South Africa where he will join up with his former team the Stormers.

Kolbe has been on the books of Japanese outfit Tokyo Suntory Sungoliath since 2023. He left the Stormers in 2017 to join French giants Toulouse where he played for four years before joining their Top 14 rivals Toulon in 2021.

The Stormers confirmed on Monday morning that the double World Cup winner is now heading back home to Cape Town.

News24’s sister publication, Rapport, reported on Sunday that the 32-year-old will link up with the Cape franchise from 1 July.

It took a major team effort from the Stormers, Kolbe’s agency Roc Nation, and a third party to bring him back to Cape Town. The third party is Sportybet, an international sports betting platform.

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Kolbe confirmed the move in a social media post on Monday, saying it’s “one of the most emotional and difficult decisions” of his career.

“Japan has become so much more than just a place where I played rugby - it became a true home for me and my family. The people, the culture, the friendships, and the memories we’ve made with Tokyo Suntory Sungoliath will stay with us forever,” Kolbe wrote.

“Over time, I’ve had to weigh up the sacrifices that come with living abroad - especially the time spent away from my loved ones, the moments you can’t get back, and the stage of life our family is in right now. As grateful as we are for this incredible journey, we feel the time is right to return to South Africa after the season and begin the next chapter of our lives.

“To the Tokyo Suntory Sungoliath management, coaches, staff, team-mates, and incredible fans - thank you for embracing us and making these past few years so special. We will always carry a piece of Japan with us.

“I also want to make special mention of and extend my sincere gratitude to SportyBet, Roc Nation Sports International, and In Touch Sports for their role in making this next chapter possible. I am truly thankful.

“Arigatōgozaimasu. Thank you. Baie dankie.”

Kolbe currently boasts 49 Test caps for his country and played an integral part in South Africa’s World Cup successes in 2019 and 2023.

Meanwhile, Stormers director of rugby John Dobson, said on Monday that bringing Kolbe home next season is a massive coup for the franchise.

“Cheslin is a son of this community and has remained a staunch Stormers fan his whole life. He gives such hope and inspiration to our fans, so to have him back in our club colours is huge.

“As a player, he can do things on the field that nobody else can. Beyond that, his attitude and work ethic are second to none, and his presence in the squad is sure to lift everyone around him,” Dobson said in a statement on the Stormers website.

Dobson added that Kolbe’s addition to the squad is another important step forward for Project 2029 - when the Stormers have their sights set on winning the European Champions Cup.

“Cheslin will play an invaluable role for us both on and off the field as we continue to develop our squad. He will only be 34 in 2029 and beyond the obvious strike power he will offer, he will also provide the ideal example for the young talent coming through in terms of his discipline, conditioning, versatility and work ethic.

“We have had several top South African players express interest in joining us, but we feel in Siya Kolisi and Cheslin we now have two iconic Stormers returning who will play an influential role in the careers of some of the emerging talent with their experience, professionalism and passion for the club.

“We saw Cheslin do some incredible things in a Stormers jersey early in his career, and we know that there will be many more magical moments for our fans to celebrate. We can’t wait to welcome him home,” Dobson said.

Kolbe currently sits on 49 Stormers caps. He said it was a dream to return to play for the team he grew up supporting.

“Cape Town and this team have played such a big role in my life and career. When I left, it was always with the hope that one day I would come back home and represent this team again. To have that opportunity now means a huge amount to my family and I.

“It is a big moment for us. I have such strong connections with the players and coaches here, and I am looking forward to seeing what we can achieve together.

“The Stormers are part of who I am, and I am grateful to be coming back at such an exciting time for the club.

“Project 2029 is a big vision and something I really believe in. There is a lot of talent here, a strong culture and a clear plan for what this team can become.

“I want to contribute wherever I can, on and off the field, and help create more special moments for the people of Cape Town,” Kolbe said.