Mayor Morero celebrates successful hosting of three 2026 Rugby Tests

The City of Johannesburg has hailed the successful hosting of three Rugby Test matches during the 2026 international series, describing the fixtures as a demonstration of the city’s ability to stage major international sporting events.

Johannesburg made history by becoming the first city to host all three Test matches in a single series.

The fixtures were:

4 July: South Africa 45–21 England at Ellis Park Stadium.

22 August: South Africa 16–33 New Zealand at Ellis Park Stadium.

5 September: South Africa 29–24 New Zealand at FNB Stadium.

The City said the matches attracted thousands of supporters and visitors, boosting activity in the tourism, hospitality, retail and broader events sectors.

It expressed its appreciation to the South African Rugby Union (SARU), residents, supporters, sponsors, volunteers, event organisers, law enforcement agencies, emergency services, transport operators and hospitality businesses for their role in delivering the fixtures.

The City also highlighted the role of sport in promoting social cohesion and bringing communities together.

“The atmosphere of goodwill, excitement and camaraderie generated by the Test series also underscored the vital role of sport in fostering social cohesion, promoting unity and bringing communities together,” the City said.

According to the City, the successful hosting of the matches further strengthens Johannesburg’s position as a destination for major international sporting events.

It said it would continue working with SARU to explore opportunities to host future Springbok fixtures and other major rugby events in the city.

The City said strengthening the partnership could generate further social and economic benefits for residents while supporting Johannesburg’s tourism and events sectors.