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Suzuki Griquas have been crowned the 2026 Carling Currie Cup champions on home soil, after a thrilling final against Airlink Pumas on Saturday, 12 September, bringing another memorable season of South African domestic rugby to a fitting close.
In front of passionate supporters, both finalists delivered a final worthy of one of South Africa’s most prestigious domestic rugby competitions. The encounter showcased the intensity, skill and determination that have defined this year’s Carling Currie Cup with both sides battling until the final whistle.
Ultimately, it was Suzuki Griquas who held their nerve when it mattered most, securing a 23-16 victory and lifting the coveted Carling Currie Cup trophy.
For Suzuki Griquas, the triumph represents the culmination of a season of hard work, consistency and determination. The Suzuki Griquas won their second title in two years, following their success of 2025 in Johannesburg. As the defending champions, the Suzuki Griquas entered the final carrying the confidence and expectations that come with having already lifted the trophy. Their campaign once again demonstrated the resilience and competitive spirit that has made them a formidable force in the Carling Currie Cup.
For the Airlink Pumas, their appearance in the final reflected a season of ambition, consistency, and determination. Having battled their way through a competitive campaign to reach the championship decider, they demonstrated the quality and character required to compete at the highest level of domestic rugby.
While there could only be one champion, the 2026 final underlined the depth of talent and competitiveness within the Carling Currie Cup. The tournament continues to provide players with an important platform to test themselves, develop their careers and make their mark on the South African rugby landscape.
A competition where champions are made
The 2026 season once again reinforced the enduring importance of the Carling Currie Cup to South African rugby. Beyond the silverware, the competition creates opportunities for emerging and established players to perform on a national stage, while giving supporters an opportunity to celebrate the passion and pride that make domestic rugby so special.
Mark Alexander, SARU President, reflected another successful campaign and a memorable final.
“On behalf of SA Rugby, I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to the Suzuki Griquas on being crowned the 2026 Carling Currie Cup champions. They thoroughly deserve this achievement after coming through a truly outstanding contest. I would also like to commend the Airlink Pumas for a remarkable campaign and for their contribution to a fitting final.
“Our sincere thanks go to Carling Black Label, whose continued support as title sponsor plays such an important role in the success and growth of the Carling Currie Cup.
“To the supporters who filled the stadium and to the millions who followed the action around the country, thank you for creating such a memorable occasion. The passion, colour and energy of South African rugby fans remain the lifeblood of our game. Finally, to both teams – their commitment, courage, skill, and passion have once again showcased the exceptional talent in South African rugby and delivered a final that will be remembered for years to come.
“Congratulations once again to Suzuki Griquas, worthy champions of the 2026 Carling Currie Cup.”
As title sponsor, Carling Black Label continues to play an important role in celebrating the Carling Currie Cup and the players, teams and supporters who give the competition its character.
Kerryn Greenleaf, Carling Black Label Brand Director said “The Carling Currie Cup represents everything we love about South African rugby passion, determination, competition, and the pursuit of excellence. As a brand, we are incredibly proud to be associated with a tournament that provides a platform for players to compete at the highest level of domestic rugby and create moments that supporters remember. Today’s final was a true celebration of the competition and the fans who continue to bring it to life. We congratulate Suzuki Griquas on an outstanding achievement and salute both teams for the commitment they have shown throughout the season.”
The final brought together two teams with very different journeys but the same ambition: to become Carling Currie Cup champions. The Suzuki Griquas can now celebrate a campaign that has added another chapter to their rugby legacy, while Suzuki Griquas can take pride in a season that saw them compete among the best in South African domestic rugby.
For Suzuki Griquas, the celebrations now begin as they raise the Carling Currie Cup trophy and cement their place in the history of this prestigious competition.
The 2026 final has once again reinforced why the Carling Currie Cup remains an integral part of South African rugby a competition that celebrates the present, develops the future and provides the stage where champions are made.
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