20/08/2026
The tour like no other now has a trophy like no other.
Rugby's Greatest Rivalry, presented by Castle Double Malt, on Wednesday unveiled a world first with a trophy created in two halves β yet drawn together by magnetism β to capture the unique bond between the Springboks and All Blacks.
The concept was developed exclusively for the revival of rugby tours between the nations, to capture a simple truth: that as distinct and proud as are the two rugby cultures, each is inexorably drawn to the other as two halves of the greatest rivalry.
The winners of the four-test Tour will receive both halves following the final Test in Baltimore, USA, on 12 September 2026. Should the series be drawn, each nation will retain one half of the trophy.
The trophyβs shape is inspired by a blade of grass, an element common to every playerβs experience, and was developed by Strategy Creative of New Zealand alongside both unions. It is formed from two individual blades, one representing South Africa and one representing New Zealand.
Each blade stands independently, reflecting the unique identity, culture, and history of its nation. Only when the two pieces come together does the complete trophy emerge.
Hidden magnets draw the blades together. Like the rivalry itself, the force between them continues to bring the two nations back together, generation after generation. Each blade has been precision-machined from solid aluminium and features artwork from South African and New Zealand artists.
The South African blade features artwork by Bonolo Chepape, whose work explores the idea that greatness is never achieved alone. Through layered patterns inspired by community, culture and shared experience, her artwork celebrates the many people who shape sporting excellence in South Africa.
The New Zealand blade carries artwork by Kereama Taepa, inspired by the MΔori creation story of TΔne and Whiro β two brothers whose rivalry sees them pursue the same goal by different paths. His work reflects the tension, respect and connection that sit at the heart of great rivalries.
The trophy base continues the theme of two halves making a greater whole, as it is made of two distinct stones; black Pakohe stone from Aotearoa New Zealand, and green Verdite from South Africa.
The trophy will be seen by the general public for the first time on Saturday when the Springboks meet the All Blacks in the first test at 10bet Ellis Park in Johannesburg.
Rivalry Trophy β Specifications:
Height: 65cm
Blade weight: 7kg each half
Base weight: 9.5kg
Development and build time: One year
Issued by SA Rugby Communications
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