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Bulls Tie Down Van Staden to 2028, Gumede to 2029 in Forward Pack Push

Club leaders frame the deals as proof of stability under Johan Ackermann’s plan.

DUBLIN, IRELAND - JUNE 14: Johan Grobbelaar of Vodacom Bulls is tackled by Jordie Barrett, left, and Marco van Staden of Vodacom Bulls during the United Rugby Championship, final match between Leinster and Vodacom Bulls at Croke Park on June 14, 2025 in Dublin Ireland. (Photo by Seb Daly/Gallo Images)
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Marco van Staden. Picture: Anton Geyser/Gallo Images

Overview

  • The extensions, announced Monday, keep Springbok Marco van Staden through June 2028 and Mpilo Gumede through June 2029.
  • CEO Edgar Rathbone said the moves rebut claims the Bulls are a selling club and secure the team’s spine for the next two to three years.
  • Van Staden, a double World Cup winner who recently reached 100 Bulls caps, brings breakdown leadership and can cover flanker or hooker.
  • Gumede, 25, joined from the Sharks in 2023, has grown into a regular starter, and offers versatility across the back row and lock.
  • The club presents the pair as pillars for Ackermann’s evolving pack, a stance that also steadies the squad as departures reported for next season include David Kriel, Wilco Louw and Ruan Nortje.