DHL Stormers Land Star Springbok Prop Ahead Of 2026/27 Season
DHL Stormers Land Star Springbok Prop Ahead Of 2026/27 Season
Springbok prop Wilco Louw will return to the DHL Stormers for the 2026-27 season, boosting their scrum power and adding to his 46 caps with the Cape side.
Springbok prop Wilco Louw will return to the DHL Stormers on a long-term deal beginning with the 2026-27 season, the club announced Wednesday.
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Louw, 31, first broke through with the Stormers in 2015, quickly establishing himself as one of the premier tighthead props in South African rugby. His consistent form in Super Rugby earned him a Springbok debut in 2017, and he has since built a reputation as one of the most dominant scrummagers in the global game.
A product of HTS Drostdy in Worcester, Louw grew up supporting the Stormers and is set to add to his 46 appearances for the Cape Town-based side when he rejoins after completing his current contract abroad.
Director of Rugby John Dobson said the signing represents a statement of intent as the franchise looks to strengthen its forward pack.
“Wilco made his name as a DHL Stormer; he grew up in the region and has developed into one of the most respected props around the world,” Dobson said. “Bringing him back next season is a big move for us, and we know that he will make a big impact once again.
“We pride ourselves on our scrum culture here and, having someone of Wilco’s quality in the mix will only improve that. Beyond his attributes as a player, he is also a top person who understands what we are trying to achieve as a team, so we are all looking forward to having him back in the fold.”
Louw, who has featured in domestic and international competitions across Europe since leaving Cape Town, said the decision to return to the Stormers felt like the right step at this stage of his career.
“I am obviously focused on this season with my current team, but I am also excited about what the future holds for me back in Cape Town,” Louw said. “I know the players, coaches and staff at the DHL Stormers and believe this will be a really positive move for me as a rugby player on and off the field.”
The Stormers are coming off a strong campaign in the United Rugby Championship and have identified set-piece dominance as a cornerstone of their strategy going forward. With Louw’s arrival set for 2026, the franchise believes his experience and presence will bolster their chances of challenging for silverware in the years ahead.
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