SA Rugby have confirmed that an agreement has been reached with New Zealand to host a full-fledged All Blacks tour for the first time in 30 years.

In the governing body’s annual report for 2023, SA Rugby confirmed that the All Blacks will tour South Africa in 2026 and play a three-Test series against the Springboks.

New Zealand will also face the DHL Stormers, Vodacom Bulls, Lions and Sharks, as well as a South Africa “A” team. The possibility of including the Maori All Blacks or All Blacks ‘A’ and Black Ferns on the tour is also being explored.

“This competition has significant potential financial benefits for the organisations involved, but it would also make a substantial contribution to sports tourism with a significant economic impact for our country,” SA Rugby president Mark Alexander said in the annual report.

“We have signed a memorandum of understanding and are finalising our agreement for 2026.”

According to an earlier report by Netwerk24, South Africa will return the favour by touring New Zealand in 2030, with a similar structure in place for the Boks to face the All Blacks and the Kiwi Super Rugby teams.

According to the report, the tours will replace the Rugby Championship in 2026 and 2030, with Australia and Argentina making alternative plans.

It will be the first time that New Zealand tours South Africa since 1996, with the All Blacks winning that Test series 2-1.

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