Siya: No hard feelings over Racing exit

09/15/2024 01:45 AM

Siya Kolisi says his exit from Racing 92 was a natural rugby decision as he targets a World Cup three-peat with the Springboks in 2027.

Kolisi, who is on international duty and had not played for the Racing this season, had been released from his contract with two years of his deal still to run.

Less than 24 hours after Racing confirmed Kolisi’s exit, the Sharks announced that the loose forward had re-signed with the Durban outfit.

Kolisi, who turned 33 in June, told French newspaper L'Equipe he was returning to South Africa because finding rest periods between a busy club schedule and Test commitments with the Boks was too difficult.

“Racing 92 then gave me approval to play for the Boks, but I realized that my body would not rest if I played for the Boks and Racing,” Kolisi explained.

“By playing for the Boks, I will miss three months of the season for Racing 92. The club paid me a lot of money. It will feel like I’m robbing them.

“When they signed me, they thought they were getting the full Siya Kolisi. However, I really love playing for the Boks. I still enjoy competing. That’s what I’d like to do.

“There are no hard feelings. Racing understood that I would not be able to give my best for them if I also played for the Boks. They didn’t fight me. They wanted the best for me as a player,” Kolisi added.

“They also wanted the best for the club. The best thing for the club is that I’m there every day. As a leader, I have to add value on and off the field. I have nothing bad to say about the club. I would love to return one day and give it my all.

“After the Rugby Championship, I want to go back and say goodbye to them.”

Photo: Franco Arland/Getty Images

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