MEC Ricardo Mackenzie congratulates Blitzboks on successive crowns

Western Cape Provincial Minister of Cultural Affairs and Sport, Ricardo Mackenzie, congratulates the Springbok Sevens (Blitzboks) team for making history by becoming the first side to win successive crowns in the Cape Town leg of the HSBC SVNS (2024 and 2025). The champions were cheered on in front of an almost 40,000 packed stadium on Sunday.

Minister Mackenzie said this achievement is not only a proud moment for the nation, but especially meaningful for the Western Cape, as many of the incumbent players hail from surrounding communities across the province.

“Their victory is testament to the hard work, discipline and sheer passion of an exceptional group of athletes. For our young boys and girls in the Western Cape, seeing local heroes rise to the top of the world stage is truly inspiring. These players show that with commitment and opportunity, anything is possible,” he said.

He added that that the team’s success will motivate the next generation of rugby talent and strengthen the province’s proud legacy in the sport.

“Our Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport is working closely with the Western Cape Education Department and other stakeholders to develop school sport so that learners from all walks of life can have their talents identified for high-performance opportunities. There is no doubt in my mind that our province will deliver many more future stars like Ricardo Duarttee, Tristan Leyds and Zain Davids to name a few.”

He added: “To witness the gees in person and see the economic benefits is one of the reasons why we continue to advocate and invest in sport events”.

Media Enquiries
Ross Michaels
Spokesperson to the Provincial Minister of Cultural Affairs and Sport 
Cell: 073 157 5937