Here is a revised version of the bio that **includes his time at Racing 92 and his newly announced return to the Stormers**, while keeping the narrative authoritative and polished:
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Siya Kolisi, born on 16 June 1991 in Zwide, a township outside Gqeberha (formerly Port Elizabeth), is one of the most influential figures in South African rugby history. His rise from humble beginnings to becoming a double Rugby World Cup–winning Springbok captain stands as a powerful story of resilience, leadership, and national pride.
Kolisi’s early life was shaped by hardship. Born to Phakama at the age of 17, with his father Fezakele still completing school, Siya grew up with limited resources. After the passing of his mother when he was 15, he was raised by his grandmother, Nolulamile. Despite these challenges, Kolisi found joy in simplicity, famously recalling how his favourite childhood “toy” was a brick he pushed through the streets of Zwide.
His rugby talent emerged early and altered the course of his life. At the age of 12, Kolisi was identified by scouts at a youth tournament in Mossel Bay, earning a scholarship to Grey Junior School and later to the renowned Grey High School. He represented Eastern Province at both the Under-16 Grant Khomo Week and the Under-18 Craven Week, marking himself as a standout prospect.
After school, Kolisi joined the Western Province Rugby Institute, making his senior debut for Western Province in 2011 and his Super Rugby debut for the Stormers in 2012, scoring a try on debut. Over the next decade, he became a key figure for the Stormers, earning 76 caps, captaining the side in 2017, and reaching 100 Super Rugby appearances in 2018.
Kolisi made his Springbok debut on his 22nd birthday in 2013, becoming Springbok #851. His influence at international level continued to grow, and in 2018 he was appointed Springbok captain by Rassie Erasmus, becoming the first black captain in the history of the national team.
He led South Africa to Rugby World Cup glory in 2019 in Japan, lifting the Webb Ellis Cup and uniting the country. In 2023, Kolisi achieved a rare and historic feat by captaining the Springboks to a second consecutive Rugby World Cup title in France, cementing his status as one of the greatest leaders the game has produced.
In 2021, Kolisi moved to Durban to join the Sharks, where he brought experience, leadership, and global stature to the franchise, playing a central role in both domestic and international competitions. In 2023, he expanded his career internationally by signing with French Top 14 club Racing 92, gaining valuable experience in European rugby and further enhancing his global profile.
In 2024, it was announced that Kolisi would return home to the Stormers, bringing his journey full circle. His return to Cape Town marked a significant moment for both player and province, reuniting him with the franchise where he developed into an elite professional and began his rise to international prominence.
Off the field, Kolisi continues to make a lasting impact through the Kolisi Foundation, which he co-founded in 2020 to address issues such as food security, education, and gender-based violence, and which played a vital role in supporting vulnerable communities during the COVID-19 pandemic.
From the streets of Zwide to lifting the Webb Ellis Cup twice, Siya Kolisi’s story transcends rugby. He remains a symbol of hope, unity, and purpose—an enduring inspiration in South Africa and across the global sporting landscape.
Career
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South Africa Openside Flanker |
2012 - present |
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Sharks Openside Flanker |
2021 - present |
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Eastern Province Kings Openside Flanker |
2007 - 2009 |
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South Africa U20's Openside Flanker |
2010 - 2011 |
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Barbarians Openside Flanker |
2018 - 2018 |
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Stormers Openside Flanker |
2012 - 2021 |
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Western Province Openside Flanker |
2011 - 2021 |
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Springbok Green Openside Flanker |
2020 - 2024 |
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Natal Sharks Openside Flanker |
2021 - 2024 |
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South Africa A Openside Flanker |
2021 - 2024 |
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Grey High School Gqebertha Blindside Flanker |
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Racing 92 Openside Flanker |
2023 - 2025 |
