Record-breaking crowds in URC round 8 as SA rugby sets the precedent

South Africa’s rugby dominance continued as the Vodacom United Rugby Championship shattered attendance records, reaching 135,747 fans in Round 8, surpassing last season’s record. South African derbies drew nearly 6src,srcsrcsrc spectators, highlighting the success of local franchises in boosting both broadcast numbers and stadium attendance. This follows a record 1.6 million total attendance for the 2src22/23 season. The league’s chief executive praised clubs’ innovation, collaboration, and engaging match-day experiences. The focus now turns to the Champions and Challenge Cups, where South African teams aim to showcase their improvements on the international stage.

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SA SIDES LEAD THE WAY AS ATTENDANCE RECORDS BROKEN

By URCSA

South Africa’s rugby franchises again led the way as the Vodacom United Rugby Championship broke another attendance record this past weekend, with the two local derbies accounting for almost half of the total figure. 

The figure of 135 747 – which was topped up by the delayed Hollywoodbets Sharks-Emirates Lions derby in Durban this weekend, took the figure way past the 123 2src7 which was set last season in round 11.

Considering almost 6src srcsrcsrc of those fans for the one round came from the two South African derbies, it underlines again the success of South African franchises joining the league and not only bolstering the broadcast numbers but also fans in stadiums as well.

The tally could only be completed after the Sharks-Lions game, but stands for the round that was traditionally played before and after Christmas, and almost 2src srcsrcsrc fans flocked to the Durban game to put it over the top.

This comes off the back of a record 1.6million total