Cape Town – 09 September 2024: Engen, South Africa’s biggest fuel brand and the Official Fuel Supplier of the Springboks, has officially welcomed four rugby legends as brand ambassadors, inviting rugby fans to join it in celebrating this exciting new chapter and to share in the joy of the game loved by so many.

Rugby superstars, Siya Kolisi, Eben Etzebeth, Cheslin Kolbe, and retired Springbok, Tendai Mtawarira were unveiled in Cape Town on 9 September. These icons of the game will join forces with us to celebrate the rich heritage and spirit of rugby in South Africa.

Commenting on the announcement, Seelan Naidoo, Vivo Energy’s EVP South commended the four Springboks for bringing pride to South Africa through their contributions to the world champion Springbok rugby team, as well as their ability to inspire and connect with people across cultures and backgrounds.

“As a company synonymous with high performance and reliability, we are incredibly honoured that Siya, Eben, Cheslin and Tendai have chosen to represent us to help fuel growth and progress in communities across South Africa. The four living legends all demonstrate a deep passion and care for our country, which resonates deeply with our commitment to making a positive contribution. Together we will continue to push boundaries and strive for excellence in every endeavour,” commented Naidoo.

Mtawarira, capped 117 times by the Springboks and a member of the 2109 World Cup winning team, said it was an honour to serve as one of the brand ambassadors.

“Engen is a household name in South Africa, and across the continent. Vivo Energy and Engen’s ever-expanding sports sponsorship portfolio is extremely exciting, and their support for an initiative such as the ‘Get into Rugby’ development programme is especially commendable,” said the former Springbok prop, who is represented by Roc Nation Sports International, the world-renowned agency that facilitated this partnership for clients Mtawarira, Kolisi and Kolbe.

Vivo Energy and Engen holds a firm belief in the power of sport to connect people from different backgrounds and inspire individuals to reach their full potential. Through this exciting new partnership, our ambassadors will collaborate on various initiatives aimed at inspiring South Africans, supporting local communities, and promoting a spirit of unity, perseverance, and excellence.

The appointment of the four living legends further underscores Engen’s commitment to rugby, which is also seen in the company’s sponsorship of Get into Rugby (GiR), SA Rugby’s grassroots development programme, as well as Engen being the Official Fuel Supplier of the Springboks.

“Our fuel sponsorship of the Springbok rugby team is testament to our commitment to supporting excellence and helping foster national pride. Rugby is more than just a game in South Africa—it's a symbol of national unity,” continued Naidoo.

“As the Official Fuel Supplier to the Springboks, we are proud to support a team that exemplifies excellence. Every player’s hard work, skill, and unwavering commitment have not only driven the Boks to extraordinary heights but have also ignited a sense of unity and joy across South Africa,” he added.

“Moreover, our involvement in SA Rugby’s 'Get into Rugby' youth development programme reflects our long-standing commitment to helping nurture future sports stars. By supporting grassroots rugby, we aim to provide young people with opportunities to develop their skills, build confidence, and engage in the camaraderie of sport. Through these initiatives, we are not only supporting the game of rugby but also contributing to the development and welfare of broader society."

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Notes to editors:

The Vivo Energy Group operates and markets its products in countries across North, West, East, Southern Africa and in the Ocean Islands. The extended Group has a network of over 3,900 service stations in 28 markets operating under the Engen and Shell brands and exports lubricants to a number of other African countries. Its retail offering includes fuels, lubricants, card services, convenience stores, restaurants, and other non-fuel services. It provides fuels, lubricants, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and chemicals to business customers across a range of sectors including marine, aviation, mining, construction, power, transport, agriculture and manufacturing.  It is continuing to develop innovative energy solutions to enhance sustainability.

The company employs around 6,000 people and has access to over 2.1 billion litres of fuel storage capacity. 

For more information about Vivo Energy, please visit www.vivoenergy.com