The special ceremony took place at St James’ Park in Newcastle on Saturday, before the Springboks’ match against Scotland during Rugby World Cup 2015.
World Rugby Chairman Bernard Lapasset presented the coveted Hall of Fame cap to the Hon Deputy Minister of Sport and Recreation SA, Gert C Oosthuizen MP and Francois Pienaar, captain of the South Africa team that won Rugby World Cup 1995 on home soil.
Lapasset said, “The World Rugby Hall of Fame recognises those who have made an indelible mark on our sport through feats on the field of play, displays of great character or through their tireless and inspirational work in driving forward our great game.
“Mandela certainly fits in that category. He was instrumental in turning Rugby World Cup 1995 into a momentous occasion that united the South African nation through the power of sport.
“By supporting the Springboks so passionately and publicly on their way to victory, Mandela helped to change attitudes, soften hearts and convince minds of the right course of history for his country to take and, in the process, became a wonderful example to us all.
