31 October 2023
Springbok Captain Siya Kolisi greets fans while holding the Webb Ellis Cup.
Thousands of people gathered at OR Tambo International Airport on Tuesday. They wore green and gold as they welcomed the four time rugby world champions home from France.
Springbok captain Siya Kolisi emerged through the arrival gate carrying The Webb Ellis Cup. He lifted it high into the air sending the crowd wild.
Chants of “Siya Siya Siya!” rang around the airport hall as people clamoured into any space they could find to get a glimpse of their heroes.
A supporter reminds everyone of the final score in the final.
The arrivals hall was packed with thousands of people.
People gathered on the upper levels to watch the celebrations.
The Springboks became the first men’s team in rugby history to win the world cup four times after their nail biting 12-11 victory over New Zealand’s All Blacks.
Springbok player Damian Willemse holds up the cup.
Thabo Nkosi from Tembisa arrived at the airport at 6am to get a good spot. He said that the Springboks were setting a good example for South Africans. “You see they have good leaders in the squad and you can see that they all work together and they work for each other. They also remain humble and never give up. These boys have done us proud and they are a good inspiration for our youth,” said Nkosi.
Fans celebrate the return of the world champions.
Even after the Springboks left the airport, people were still dancing and celebrating the success of the team. A trophy tour will commence on Thursday.
Fans clamoured for a view of Springbok captain Siya Kolisi as he leaves the airport.