SA Rugby and New Zealand Rugby have unveiled a bespoke trophy for the Rugby's Greatest Rivalry series — a world first built in two halves held together by magnetism, with the design reflecting the enduring bond between the Springboks and All Blacks.
The trophy, developed by Strategy Creative of New Zealand in conjunction with both unions, takes its shape from a blade of grass. Each half — one representing South Africa, one New Zealand — stands independently and is precision-machined from solid aluminium. Hidden magnets draw the two pieces together. The base is constructed from two distinct stones: black Pakohe from New Zealand and green Verdite from South Africa.
Each blade carries commissioned artwork. South African artist Bonolo Chepape's contribution explores collective greatness through layered patterns drawn from community and shared cultural experience. New Zealand artist Kereama Taepa's work references the Māori creation story of Tāne and Whiro — two brothers pursuing the same goal by different paths — to reflect the tension and respect at the core of the rivalry.
The series winner takes both halves following the final Test in Baltimore on 12 September 2026. Should the series finish level, each nation retains one blade — a provision that SA Rugby CEO Rian Oberholzer noted was central to the original brief. This is the eighth time in 12 tours that the series has comprised four Tests.
The trophy makes its public debut at Ellis Park on Saturday when the Springboks host the All Blacks in the series opener.