Springbok hardman re-commits to Bulls with contract extension

The Krugersdorp native has spent his entire career in the blue of the Bulls, apart from one season at Leicester Tigers in 2021.

Van Staden was also part of the Boks' World Cup-winning squad in 2023, where his versatility was on show. The 30-year-old played hooker and flanker in the pool games on his way to a World Cup medal.

The Bulls centurion's varied skills have also been on show with the Bulls this season, where he's switched seamlessly between the front row and the flank.

The Pretoria franchise also announced the re-signing of talented loose forward Mpilo Gumede. Since he arrived from the Sharks in July 2023, the 25-year-old has transitioned from a high-potential prospect into a team regular. By securing him until 2029, the Bulls have locked down one of the most versatile back-row talents in the country.

Bulls CEO Edgar Rathbone emphasised that these extensions are a cornerstone of the club's professional roadmap.

"There has been some outside noise suggesting we are a selling club, but the reality inside Loftus is very different," said Rathbone.

"Retaining a world-class veteran like Marco and a generational talent like Mpilo is a clear signal of our stability and our ambition. We aren't just building for next week; we are securing the spine of this team for the next two to three years.

"These men believe in the vision Johan Ackermann is implementing, and we are proud that they see Loftus as the best place to achieve their Springbok and club ambitions." 

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