For three passionate Springboks supporters, the Springboks match against Scotland at Loftus Versfeld on Saturday became far more than just another day at the rugby.
Instead of watching the Springboks arrive at the stadium, Phineas Sepotokele, Belinda Gouws and Jacques van Staden found themselves leading the team’s arrival after winning the Hyundai Automotive South Africa’s Lead the Boks nationwide fan campaign.
Travelling in Hyundai’s flagship SANTA FE, driven by former Springboks Rugby World Cup-winning captain John Smit, the trio arrived at the stadium with the Springboks team bus following close behind. The once-in-a-lifetime moment included getting access to VIP seats and special guests treatment.
Sepotokele said he enjoyed the Hyundai SANTA FE experience and the match. “I had such an amazing time riding in the SANTA FE with Springbok legend John Smit heading to Loftus Stadium to watch the Boks play was an absolute dream come true. The thrill of the day was simply indescribable.”
For van Staden, it was an experience he will treasure forever. “Getting the chance to watch the match and ride the Santa Fe was so exciting. The whole experience was a massive highlight for me.”
Gouws shared the same sentiment. “I am thrilled to have experienced Lead the Boks. Meeting John Smit and the Springboks team was a highlight for me,” she stated.
Smit said sharing the experience with the trio reminded him of what makes rugby so special. “I have experienced some incredible moments in a Springboks jersey but sharing this occasion with the fans was genuinely special. Their excitement reminded me what the Springboks mean to South Africans, and it was a privilege to help create memories they will cherish forever,” added Smit.
Hyundai Automotive South Africa Marketing Director Tshiamo Tladi said the campaign was designed to celebrate the supporters who have stood behind the Springboks through every triumph and challenge.
“Our fans are part of every Springbok journey,” said Tladi.
“We wanted to give ordinary South Africans an extraordinary experience that brought them closer to the team they love. Creating memories like these is what meaningful mobility is all about.”
As the Springboks secured a 42-28 victory over Scotland in front of more than 45,053 passionate supporters, three fans left the stadium with memories that will last a lifetime.
Dream Come True as Hyundai Gives Springboks Fans the Ride of Their Liveshttps://t.co/fwNMVmw3Uc#ArriveAlive @Springboks @HyundaiSA @RugbyFifteen pic.twitter.com/1TyHVA5JUq
– Arrive Alive (@_ArriveAlive) July 14, 2026
