Siya Kolisi’s Potential Return to the Sharks

Talks are heating up about Siya Kolisi possibly returning to his former team, the Sharks, after an eventful stint with Racing 92 in France. Just a year into his three-year contract, the Springboks captain is hoping to head back home.

Kolisi joined Racing 92 after leading South Africa to a major Rugby World Cup victory last year, but his time in France has been tough due to injuries and some struggles to find form. Notably, Racing’s owner, Jacky Lorenzetti, criticized Kolisi publicly, saying he had “gained weight” and looked “transparent” on the field.

According to a source from Rapport, Kolisi’s wish to return is more about personal reasons than dissatisfaction with the club. His family reportedly doesn’t want to stay in France, and the parties involved are said to be working together amicably toward a solution.

While talks are ongoing, it is suggested that an agreement could be reached soon, possibly within days. After Lorenzetti’s comments, Kolisi and the owner had a private discussion to address the situation, though details from that talk remain under wraps.

The Sharks had previously received a hefty transfer fee of R17 million from Racing for Kolisi’s services, and it’s unclear how much they will need to pay to bring him back. Reports indicated that SA Rugby may have initially been involved in some discussions regarding the costs, but they have denied any involvement in buying out Kolisi’s contract.

Instead, SA Rugby mentioned that should Kolisi return to South Africa, they might provide additional support under their “players of national interest” program, which increases the financial assistance for national players.

With Kolisi’s family already back in South Africa and waiting for his return, it seems his transition back to the Sharks could be imminent as negotiations continue.