Rassie Erasmus Overlooked in World Rugby Awards – South African Fans Demand Recognition

The glamorous World Rugby Awards ceremony in Monaco might have been a celebratory occasion for many, but the mood was somber among South African rugby supporters. Just a day after the South African national team, the Springboks, capped off an unbeaten Autumn season in Europe, their coach, Rassie Erasmus, was conspicuously overlooked for the prestigious Coach of the Year award.

The Springboks notched victories against formidable teams like Scotland, England, and Wales, marking an undefeated European tour, a feat last achieved in 2013. Under Erasmus' stewardship, the team’s performance this season included monumental wins and the collection of several trophies like the Qatar Airways Cup, the Mandela Plate, the Freedom Cup, the Rugby Championship trophy, and the Prince William Cup.

Despite these accolades and an impressive record of 11 wins against just 2 losses this year, Erasmus was sidelined in favor of Jérôme Daret, the architect behind France's Olympic success. This decision has stirred discontent and a wave of criticism from the South African public and global rugby community alike, calling into question the criteria and fairness of the World Rugby's selection process.

Social media platforms buzzed with indignation from fans and former players. The sentiment was clear - they felt that Erasmus' achievements were monumental enough to warrant the accolade. Comments highlighted the discrepancy in recognition, especially considering former Springbok coach Jacques Nienaber’s similar snub last year post-Rugby World Cup victory.

Adding to South Africa's mixed fortunes at the awards, young sensation Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu was also overlooked for the Breakthrough Player of the Year, an honor that instead went to New Zealand's Wallace Sititi.

Despite these setbacks, it wasn't all disappointment for the South African contingent. Pieter-Steph Du Toit captured the Men’s 15’s World Player of the Year award, solidifying his status as an elite rugby player. Moreover, South Africa’s prowess was further acknowledged with the inclusion of seven players in the World Rugby Dream Team for 2024.

While the snub of Rassie Erasmus has undoubtedly cast a shadow on the Springboks' otherwise stellar year, the team's remarkable accomplishment and the international recognition of their talents underscores the depth and caliber of South African rugby. As the team gears up for another competitive season, the hope among the South African rugby fraternity is that their future successes will be paired with fitting accolades for their mastermind, Erasmus.