Key points drawn from coverage. Tap a point to see the original sentence.
The Namibian
John Heynes thanked NBL for its continued support
“NRU chief executive John Heynes thanks NBL for its continued support, saying the Welwitschias are preparing for an important international programme.”
Namibia Breweries reaffirms support for rugbyNew Era
John Heynes stated that NRU governance and executive structures remain in place and fully operational
“Heynes also commented on the recent public interest in the union and its governance, stating that, "The NRU affirms that its governance and executive structures remain in place and fully operational, and that the union continues to function in accordance with its constitutional, regulatory and international obligations."”
NRU clears air on status, strategies …shifts focus to development programmesThe Namibian
John Heynes dismissed reports that Burger resigned
“Speaking to The Namibian and Desert FM, NRU chief executive John Heynes dismissed reports that rugby director and Welwitschia head coach Jacques Burger has resigned, saying this was not the case.”
Rugby on the rocks: Union in turmoilThe Namibian
John Heynes said he didn't know about the border permit incident
“John Heynes CEO of the Namibia Rugby Union said he didnt know about the incident.”
A long walk to Ongos Valley 7s titleThe Namibian
John Heynes, CEO of Namibia Rugby Union said the Gold Cup will serve as the second round of this year's season
“According to the CEO of the Namibia Rugby Union, John Heynes, the Gold Cup will serve as the second round of this year's season.”
Rugby back with JSB Gold CupThe Namibian
John Heynes says Namibia Rugby Union is dedicated to fostering vibrant rugby culture and creating player opportunities
“"The Namibia Rugby Union is dedicated to fostering a vibrant rugby culture and creating opportunities for players at all levels," says Namibia Rugby Union chief executive John Heynes.”
Namibian rugby plays to its strengthsThe Namibian
John Heynes, CEO of the NRU said four regional teams will compete in the tournament from 22 February to 8 March 2025
“John Heynes CEO of the NRU said four regional teams will compete in the tournament over three weekends from 22 February to 8 March 2025.”
MTC returns to rugby after 12 yearsThe Namibian
John Heynes said T1 Rugby is a third format of World Rugby after 15-a-side and Sevens rugby
“According to Heynes T1 Rugby is a third format of World Rugby, after 15-a-side and Sevens rugby, that encompasses normal characteristics of rugby like the scrum, the lineouts and rucks, but without full contact.”
T1 Rugby launched in NamibiaThe Namibian
John Heynes said programme will be funded by World Rugby over next 12 months
“"The programme will run over the next 12 months and will be funded by World Rugby, but we will approach investors or sponsors in Namibia to expand it further.”
T1 Rugby launched in NamibiaNamibia Breweries Limited announced a N$2-million sponsorship to the Namibian Rugby Union on Tuesday, reaffirming its backing for the sport despite the senior national side's failure to qualify for the Rugby World Cup for the first time in 26 years and the under-20 side's loss to Kenya in a World Rugby u20 Challenge qualifier.
13 August 2026 · The Namibian →
Namibia Breweries Limited announced a N$2-million sponsorship to the Namibian Rugby Union on Tuesday, reaffirming its backing for the sport despite the senior national side's failure to qualify for the Rugby World Cup for the first time in 26 years and the under-20 side's loss to Kenya in a World Rugby u20 Challenge qualifier.
13 August 2026 · The Namibian →
The Namibia Rugby Union held a media briefing to address its failure to qualify for the 2027 Rugby World Cup and announce a strategic shift toward development programmes. The union plans to reduce reliance on World Cup cycles, introduce an "Adopt a School" initiative with regional clubs, and implement Sevens rugby at primary and secondary school levels.
11 February 2026 · New Era →
The Namibia Rugby Union has acknowledged that missing World Cup qualification has damaged confidence but insists the sport remains stable. The union is now shifting toward long-term development and sustainability, including grassroots programmes, an "Adopt a School" initiative, and a reset of national player pathways, while engaging government and sponsors to offset reduced World Rugby funding.
11 February 2026 · The Namibian →
The Namibia Rugby Union is in turmoil following coaching staff resignations in December—including director of rugby Jacques Burger—and after failing to qualify for the 2027 Rugby World Cup. Former player Damian Stevens has publicly called for financial transparency, a strategic plan, and performance review, while union leadership disputes some resignation claims and promises a press conference on 10 February to address stakeholders.
6 February 2026 · The Namibian →