Home hopes, Euro dreams — South Africa’s franchises look to tame the URC

With the new United Rugby Championship (URC) season getting underway this weekend, all eyes will be fixed on the South African franchises — the Bulls, Sharks, Stormers, and Lions — to see where they will end up in the competition.

This is shaping up to be the most competitive edition of the tournament yet, with the teams more familiar with each other and the local sides better adapted to the demands of European conditions. With improved player depth, overseas experience, and a point to prove, each of the four local sides carries its own expectations.

We look at where they might finish in the 2025/26 tournament.

Bulls: Title contenders (Predicted finish: 2nd to 4th)

The Bulls enter the season as South Africa’s top URC hope after flying the flag last season.

With a powerful pack, some key acquisitions — including flyhalf Handré Pollard — and strong home form at Loftus Versfeld, they’ve built a squad capable of challenging Irish and Scottish opposition. Under new head coach Johan Ackermann, the mental aspect of their game should also improve, allowing them to grind out wins, particularly in tight contests.

Much will depend on squad rotation during European competitions, but a top-four finish should be the minimum target.

Sharks: Must step up to the plate (Predicted finish: 3rd to 6th)

After a shaky 2023/24 tournament, the Durbanites bounced back well and made the playoffs last season, showing glimpses of what their squad can do when it clicks.

However, they still produced some inconsistent performances that ultimately hampered their campaign. But with international talent across the board and a more settled coaching setup, they have the firepower to push for a top-six spot — or even secure another home playoff.

Consistency, especially in local derbies and away games, will be key to cracking the top four and pushing for a first-ever URC final.

Stormers: Dangerous but unpredictable (Predicted finish: 5th to 8th)

The Stormers remain one of the most unpredictable teams in the competition.

On their day, they can beat anyone, but lapses in discipline and inconsistency away from their fortress, the DHL Stadium, have cost them. A strong playoff push is expected this year, especially with strategic acquisitions — particularly up front.

They must find their rhythm early, and starting against defending champions Leinster could be key. If they fail to get off to a good start, especially during their first tour in a few weeks, a mid-table finish and an away quarter-final look most likely. They've lost in the last two playoffs away from home.

Lions: Outside chance (Predicted finish: 8th to 12th)

The Lions have shown fight and promise in flashes but continue to struggle with depth and composure in pressure moments.

Capable of upsets on any given day, their form on the road — and lack of depth towards the end of the season — could keep them outside the playoff bracket again. They narrowly missed out last season after their wheels came off late in the campaign.

A solid mid-table finish would be a realistic achievement after seasons of rebuilding. Their playoff hopes will depend on the momentum they can build during the competition and how well they manage injuries.

Our verdict:

The Bulls are expected to lead the charge, with the Sharks and Stormers close behind as South Africa’s top contenders. The Lions need something special to break into the top eight, but this could be the season where all four local teams make the playoffs and secure Champions Cup qualification.