The Sharks have invested in experience to mentor the rising stars in the squad, extending the contract of a two-time world champion until 2027.
Springbok winger Makazole Mapimpi has penned a two-year contract extension that will keep him with the Durbanites until June of the next Rugby World Cup year.
The 34-year-old speedster remains a key figure at Kings Park, and played a key role in the Sharks’ EPCR Challenge Cup triumph last season. His vast experience will be invaluable in mentoring wings like Ethan Hooker, Eduan Keyter and Lili Bester.
Mapimpi’s renewal follows contract extensions for hooker Ethan Bester, loosehead prop Phatu Ganyane and flanker Tino Mavesere, as the Sharks continue to lock in their core squad for the future.
ALSO: Sharks look forward to the future
A late bloomer, Mapimpi made his Test debut at 27 in 2018. He exploded onto the world stage a year later, scoring six tries at the 2019 World Cup, including South Africa’s first-ever try in a final. He returned for the 2023 tournament, grabbing a hat-trick against Romania before a facial injury ended his campaign.
His professional journey began with the Border Bulldogs before standout stints at the Southern Kings and Cheetahs propelled him to Super Rugby and eventually the Boks. He joined the Sharks in 2018, quickly establishing himself as a prolific finisher.
With 32 tries in 46 Tests, Mapimpi sits third on the Boks’ all-time try-scoring list, tied with Jaque Fourie.
Photo: Darren Stewart/Gallo Images
