Portugal: Where Legends Come to Meet

Rugby returns in full force this June as Portugal once again becomes the meeting ground for greatness. The 4th edition of the Rugby Legends Tour to Portugal kicks off with a week-long celebration of rugby, building up to an unmissable game on Saturday, June 7th, featuring some of rugby’s most iconic former players.

By Advertiser, in Sport · 16 May 2025, 13:12 · 0 Comments

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These Legends are not just former players; they are champions of the game, dedicating their time and energy to coaching, training, and giving back to the sport. Their passion extends far beyond the field, as they play a pivotal role in fundraising, organising major events, and empowering the next generation of players. By nurturing local clubs, mentoring young talent, and ensuring rugby’s reach continues to expand, they are creating a lasting impact that will resonate for generations to come. This is not just about celebrating the sport—it’s about transforming lives and leaving a legacy for the future.

Throughout the week, the South African Rugby Legends will join forces with international players to engage in local outreach. They will visit schools, run clinics, and inspire the next generation of players to embrace the core values of rugby—respect, resilience, and teamwork. Their mission is to leave behind not just their skills but also their love for the game, which transcends borders and connects communities across the world.

Wearing the green and gold, the South African side boasts icons like John Smit, the World Cup-winning captain; Percy Montgomery, South Africa’s first Test centurion and all-time leading points scorer; Joel Stransky, the fly-half who sealed South Africa’s 1995 World Cup triumph with his unforgettable drop goal; and Francois Louw, the relentless flanker and 2019 World Cup winner known for his uncompromising style. Joining them are fan favourites such as Butch James, Brent Russell, Danie Gerber, Gcobani Bobo, and Jaco Kriel—each bringing their own flavour of brilliance to the pitch. The team is guided by coach Dick Muir, who reflects: “Rugby is about more than just the game on the field—it's about building character, unity, and legacy.

Standing in opposition, we have the Portugal World Legends lineup— a combination of national legends and renowned rugby talent, united by their passion for the sport.

Portuguese "grandes nomes" such as Pedro Leal, the dynamic fullback; Vasco Uva, a towering presence in leadership and play; and Tiago Girão, the ever-reliable back row, anchor the side. They're joined by international powerhouses including Steffon Armitage, Alex Cuthbert, Sam Tuitupou, Jackson Wray, Vereniki Goneva, and Juan Socino—each bringing top-tier experience and world-class skill. The team’s tactical edge comes from the coaching duo of Kelly Brown, the former Scotland captain, and Tomás Appleton, Portugal’s current captain and a leading force in the evolution of Portuguese rugby.

Rugby has always been a powerful force for unity, and this tour perfectly exemplifies how the sport brings together nations. As South Africa’s legendary players come to Portugal, they not only showcase their immense talent but also foster a bond between these two rugby-loving nations. With rugby on the rise in Portugal, the tour highlights the country’s growing presence on the international stage—a place where legends are born, and lasting connections are built across continents.