South Africa captain Siya Kolisi has rejoined Durban-based Sharks after Racing 92 terminated his contract on Sunday.
The 33-year-old’s deal was due to run out in 2026 but the French club agreed to terminate it early after only one season.
The Springboks captain joined Sharks in 2021 from fellow South African side Stormers before leaving the United Rugby Championship side for Paris after winning the World Cup for a second time in 2023.
“My family and I have enjoyed a wonderful year abroad that has given us cherished memories,” Kolisi said in a statement.
“We have missed South Africa though and it is time to come home.
“I would like to thank Racing 92 for accommodating my request to return home and for the exciting opportunity they gave me to play abroad. It is a great club steeped in tradition with an impressive group of players, who I can now call brothers for life.
“I am excited to be returning to Durban to rejoin the Hollywoodbets Sharks. My family and I love Durban and its people, and I cannot wait to run out on to the park at Hollywoodbets Kings Park during the 2024-2025 rugby season.”
Last year, Kolisi became the second captain to lift back-to-back World Cups, after New Zealand’s Richie McCaw.
Kolisi is currently competing for the Springboks in the Rugby Championship, scoring a try in his side’s 18-12 win over New Zealand at the weekend.
South Africa top the Rugby Championship table with four wins from four games. The team have two matches remaining, both against Argentina.