Home hopes, Euro dreams: SA franchises look to tame the URC

WITH the new United Rugby Championship (URC) season getting underway this weekend, all eyes will be fixed on the South African franchises — the Bulls, Sharks, Stormers, and Lions — to see where they will end up in the competition.

- LEIGHTON KOOPMAN

This is shaping up to be the most competitive edition of the tournament yet, with the teams more familiar with each other and the local sides better adapted to the demands of European conditions. With improved player depth, overseas experience, and a point to prove, the four local sides carry their own expectations.

We look at where they might finish in the 2025/26 tournament.

Bulls: Title contenders (Predicted finish: 2nd to 4th)

The Bulls enter the season as South Africa’s top URC hope after flying the flag last season.

With a powerful pack, some key acquisitions — including flyhalf Handré Pollard — and strong home form at Loftus Versfeld, they've built a squad capable of challenging Irish and Scottish opposition. Under new head coach Johan Ackermann, the mental aspect of their game should also improve, allowing them to grind out wins, particularly in tight contests.