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South African fans have spoken loud and clear, voting with their feet.
When the back-to-back world champions run out at Loftus Versfeld against Italy on Saturday, they will witness an abundance of empty seats for the second successive week.
That's because Springbok ticket prices have soared beyond the reach of the average supporter, with the number of empty seats beginning to tarnish the noise around the national team.
Social media showcased the DHL Stadium looking half-empty during the Springboks’ 54–7 win over the Barbarians last weekend. Ticket prices reached up to R3,000 (£124) for premium seats, with even "budget" options snapped up quickly or out of budget for many, particularly with the recent rise in unemployment rate to 32.9 per cent.
This team, led by inspirational captain and township hero Siya Kolisi, have bound the nation together during torrid times for most South Africans, but the rise in costs to watch them may result in rugby union turning back into an elitist sport with people turning to the much more affordable football matches.
Eroding affordability and atmosphere
While stadium operators claim infrastructure quality and tourist demand drive prices, critics argue fans are being excluded. “Where do you draw the line?” asked broadcaster Ashfak?Mohamed. “They can't see their World Champions because they are being priced out.”
On social media, complaints poured in about elitist pricing and the irony of charging top dollar for a team that symbolises national unity.
Revenue vs inclusion
SA Rugby CEO Rian Oberholzer defended the pricing, saying revenue from ticket sales funds grassroots rugby and union initiatives, but he also admitted seats behind the posts, which are historically affordable, had drifted into higher categories, requiring a review.
Half-empty stadiums weaken home-field energy and alienate the next generation of fans. Without affordable tickets, families, students, and middle-income South Africans are increasingly shifting their support to their armchairs, diluting rugby’s cultural impact at a critical time for the Rainbow Nation.
The way forward
SA Rugby should revise its pricing tiers immediately: increase the volume of low-cost seats and better distribute price categories across stadium sections. Long-term momentum demands accessibility, not just profitability.
World champions shouldn’t rely solely on tourist cash. If South Africa wants packed stadiums and roaring crowds, it must ensure matchday remains within reach for ordinary fans. Otherwise, the roar at home could fall silent.