Lions loose forward Ruhan Straeuli has been forced into early retirement at the age of 26 due to a serious neck injury that required surgical intervention in March.
The Bulls, Lions, Sharks and Stormers have been assured of their participation in the United Rugby Championship for the next four years.
The Lions snapped a five-match winless streak after beating Connacht 26-7 in their United Rugby Championship clash at Ellis Park on Saturday.
Saturday's Round 16 of the United Rugby Championship clash sees the Lions up against Irish outfit Connacht at Emirates Airline Park.
Lions captain Francke Horn will miss the rest of the United Rugby Championship season due to injury, in a blow not only to his club's campaign but also to his hopes of earning a Springbok call-up.
The Lions' hopes of a late-season surge were dashed on Saturday as they slumped to a 42-31 defeat against Benetton at Ellis Park, ending their playoff aspirations in the United Rugby Championship.