YesPlay announced as Title Sponsor of the YesPlay Cup: Barbarians vs Springboks in Gqeberha

South African rugby fans have a major date to circle on the 2026 sporting calendar. YesPlay is proud to announce its title sponsorship of the YesPlay Cup, featuring an iconic clash between the Springboks and Barbarian F.C. on 20 June 2026 at the legendary Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium.

This is not just another fixture. It is one of the most anticipated rugby spectacles of the year.

A rare Rugby occasion

Matches involving Barbarian F.C. are rare, prestigious, and followed by fans around the world. Known for their attacking flair, creativity, and entertaining style of play, the Barbarians represent rugby in its purest form.

What makes them even more exciting is the mystery around team selection. Players are invited from across the global rugby landscape based on form, reputation, and style. Final squads are often confirmed close to matchday, building anticipation as fans wait to see which stars will take the field.

The power of the Springboks at home

Standing opposite them will be South Africa national rugby union team, a team synonymous with excellence, resilience, and national pride.

When the Springboks play on home soil, it becomes more than a match. It becomes a shared South African moment. The roar of the crowd, the sea of green and gold, and the passion in the stands create an atmosphere unlike anything else in world sport.

Against a side as expressive and unpredictable as the Barbarians, the occasion promises to be unforgettable.

Excitement builds for Gqeberha

Springbok Head Coach Rassie Erasmus shared his anticipation ahead of the fixture:

“I can’t wait for the season to start and what better place than Gqeberha, where we’ve always enjoyed enormous support.”

He added:

“We’ve been told that the average attendance at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium is over 95% of stadium capacity and we hope to see the stands packed out again this year when we welcome the BaaBaas to the game.”

“They are coming to South Africa with an experienced and esteemed coaching team, and we know they will provide us with a proper test.”

A proud moment for YesPlay

YesPlay Founder Dmitry Oberzhitsky said:

“This is exactly the kind of moment YesPlay stands for. The YesPlay Cup is about bringing fans an unforgettable experience, world-class rugby, incredible energy, and a shared passion for the game.”

“We’re proud to be a South African brand supporting an event that showcases the very best of the sport on home soil.”

“Games like this don’t come around often. When they do, they create something special, not just on the field, but in the stands and across the country.”

Barbarians welcome the Partnership

John Spencer commented:

“Barbarian F.C. prides itself on its values and ethos and it is important our partners embody the same.”

“We are delighted to be working with YesPlay when we take on the World Champions, the Springboks, in the YesPlay Cup this June.”

“YesPlay are a proud South African company and in addition to the title sponsorship of the match we are proud to have them on the front of our jersey for this exciting international clash.”

Secure your seat early

With demand expected to be high, fans are encouraged to secure tickets early for what is set to be one of the standout sporting events of the year.

Event Details:

YesPlay Cup
Barbarian F.C. vs South Africa national rugby union team
20 June 2026
15:00
Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium

Tickets available exclusively via www.springboks.tmtickets.co.za