6 November 2026
Springbok loose forward Pieter-Steph du Toit will leave Japanese club Toyota Verblitz after securing an early release from his contract. The double World Cup winner requested the departure to avoid being separated from his family during the upcoming rugby season.
Du Toit has represented South Africa in over 100 Test matches and remains a vital member of Rassie Erasmus’s squad. He was a central figure in the Springboks' back-to-back World Cup triumphs in 2019 and 2023. The 34-year-old expressed his gratitude to the Japanese side for accommodating his personal circumstances.
“Toyota Verblitz and the people of Japan have been incredibly kind and welcoming to our family,” Du Toit said. “I would like to sincerely thank the club’s management for enabling our family to stay together during our time in Japan.”
Du Toit explained that family logistics drove his decision to return home. “I shared with the management that I did not want to be separated from my family and travel back and forth between Japan and South Africa during the upcoming season,” he stated. “They were understanding of my situation and kindly agreed to an early release from my contract.”
Toyota Verblitz general manager Akitomo Goto praised the South African flanker for his elite standards and leadership. He noted that Du Toit's work ethic served as a major source of inspiration for the rest of the squad. The club management acknowledged that his contribution significantly advanced the development of the team.
“Throughout his time with Toyota Verblitz, Pieter consistently delivered outstanding performances as one of the world’s finest rugby players,” Goto said. “He also set exceptionally high standards in his daily training and match preparation, making a significant impact both on and off the field.”
The club confirmed that the separation was entirely amicable. “We are extremely proud to have had Pieter represent Toyota Verblitz and sincerely thank him for his outstanding contribution to the club,” Goto added. “We have the utmost respect for everything Pieter has achieved during his time with us, and everyone at Toyota Verblitz wishes him every success in the next chapter of his career.”