The Blue Bulls Company confirmed that versatile loose forward Hanro Liebenberg will be returning to his roots, joining the Vodacom Bulls ahead of the 2026/27 season.
Liebenberg returns to Loftus Versfeld after a highly decorated seven-year stint with English Premiership giants Leicester Tigers, where he made 141 appearances, scored 31 tries, and famously lifted the Gallagher Premiership title in 2022.
A former Junior Springbok captain and a mainstay of the Bulls pack between 2015 and 2019, Liebenberg’s return marks a significant homecoming for a player who first cut his teeth in the professional ranks in Pretoria. Known for his supreme athleticism, lineout prowess, and relentless work rate, the 30-year-old brings a wealth of European experience and leadership back to the capital.
Edgar Rathbone, CEO of the Blue Bulls Company, said: “Bringing a player of Hanro’s calibre back to Loftus is a special moment for this union. He isn’t just a world-class loose forward; he is a man who understands the DNA of the Vodacom Bulls. During his seven years in England, we watched him grow into a formidable leader and a champion, and to have him choose to return home to finish his career in Pretoria speaks volumes about the culture we are building here. We’ve remained in close contact with Hanro and his family over the years, and we are thrilled to welcome him, Danielle, and Lucah back to the Vodacom Bulls family.”
Reflecting on his return to South Africa, Hanro Liebenberg said: “This was one of the toughest decisions of my career because of how much I love Leicester, but the call of home and the opportunity to represent the Vodacom Bulls again was something I couldn’t ignore.
“I left Pretoria as a young player looking to test myself abroad, and I’m returning with a lot more experience and a deep desire to contribute to the success of this squad. Loftus is where it all started for me, and I can’t wait to run out onto that field again in front of the fans who supported me from day one. My family and I are excited to be back among our people.”
Liebenberg will officially join the Vodacom Bulls at the conclusion of the current Northern Hemisphere season.