The Free State Cheetahs (Pty) Ltd and the Free State Rugby Union (Free State Rugby) are proud to confirm that Toyota Stadium has been officially recognized as a Tier 2 stadium in South Africa’s rugby landscape.
This milestone marks a significant step forward not only for rugby in the Free State, but for Bloemfontein and the greater Central South African region as a whole.
Tier 2 Test status means Toyota Stadium now meets the required national standards to host quality Springbok Test matches. These standards cover infrastructure, cosmetic updates, facilities, media requirements, hospitality areas and an overall spectator experience.
Importantly, it repositions Bloemfontein as a viable host city for high-quality international rugby events. It confirms that the stadium is equipped to host international teams and present high and professional level Test matches.
The upgrade brings significant economic benefits:
- Increase in tourism and visitor expenditure: Future international matches will attract thousands of visiting supporters, media and team delegations. This boosts hotel occupancy, stimulates the restaurant trade, supports local transport providers and stimulates retail activity.
- Job creation and event-related opportunities: Major test events create employment in the fields of catering, security, event management and technical services.
- Regional Exposure: The global broadcasts will expose Bloemfontein and the Free State to an international audience, strengthening the region’s brand and tourism appeal.
For a centrally located city like Bloemfontein, major events have a ripple effect, benefiting not only the metro, but also surrounding cities and the wider provincial economy.
For the Free State Rugby Union and the Free State Cheetahs (Pty) Ltd, the recognition of the Grade B stadium reinforces the province’s historic contribution to South African rugby. It ensures that supporters in central South Africa continue to experience international sporting events in their own backyard.
Hosting Test matches also inspires young players across the province, giving them the opportunity to witness world-class rugby on home soil. This plays a crucial role in development pathways and in maintaining the strong rugby culture in the region.
This achievement is the result of a strong partnership between Free State Rugby Union, the Free State Cheetahs (Pty) Ltd, the Mangaung Local Municipality, the Free State Sport Confederation and the South African Rugby Union. Through coordinated upgrades, facility improvements and compliance improvements, the stadium has been restored to a standard befitting its proud history.
The elevation to Tier 2 Test status sends a strong message: Bloemfontein is and will remain a major rugby destination in South Africa and the world.
We look forward to welcoming international teams and supporters back to Toyota Stadium, where world-class sport meets the passion of the heart of the Free State and its people.
Toyota Cheetahs
www.fscheetahs.co.za