Jean-Luc du Preez has dismissed reports that he is considering retirement, insisting his condition is improving and that he is targeting a return to action when Bordeaux-Bègles begin pre-season preparations at the end of July.
The 30-year-old's debut season at the French club has been wrecked by a series of concussions, restricting him to just three appearances after his move from Sale Sharks. Bordeaux president Laurent Marti added fuel to the speculation when he told Sud Ouest: "I have serious doubts… If it were my son, I would ask him to stop because I'm very scared." Midi Olympique subsequently reported that Du Preez would be forced to retire, with the club already identifying potential replacements.
Du Preez pushed back on those claims in an interview with Rapport. "My symptoms have improved a lot over the last few months," he said. "I'm feeling a lot better at the moment, and I just thought it was best not to take any chances this past season. I hope to be back on the field as soon as possible — this year has been very challenging for me. I have never played so little rugby in a season."
Several doctors and specialists recommended rest at the start of pre-season following the repeated head injuries. Du Preez confirmed he has not made a retirement decision and expects to be fit for pre-season: "We are off for six weeks, then we start pre-season preparations, and I hope to be ready for the pre-season which starts at the end of July."
Erasmus confirmed last week that Du Preez will not be available for Springbok selection in 2026 but remains in the frame for 2027. Despite his near-total absence from competitive rugby this season, Du Preez was included in the Springboks' virtual alignment camp for overseas-based players.
His past year has been a catalogue of misfortune. He started against the Barbarians in July before being forced off injured, then missed what would have been his first Test cap since 2023 through illness. A significant knee injury subsequently ended his involvement after he was named to face the All Blacks at Eden Park.