Tributes to a legend
Tributes to Nelson Mandela have poured in from all over the rugby world.
The former South African President and global icon passed away peacefully in his home on Thursday evening, sparking a flood of tributes from all over the world.
One of his many achievements was his contribution to South African rugby, which was recognised in a statement released by SANZAR.
Former Springbok captain Francois Pienaar, who led South Africa to their Rugby World Cup triumph in 1995, said: “Nelson Mandela was the most extraordinary and incredible human being, not only because he united his country when such a task seemed impossible but also because, through his unique humanity, he inspired hundreds of millions of people across the globe.
“It was my great fortune and privilege to receive the Webb Ellis Cup from Madiba at the conclusion of the 1995 Rugby World Cup Final at Ellis Park in Johannesburg, creating what has become an iconic image of national success, unity and reconciliation that resonates with all South Africans.
“I will always be profoundly grateful for the personal role Nelson Mandela has played in my life, as my President and my example.”
SANZAR CEO Greg Peters said: "Madiba exerted a profoundly positive impact upon the world, but especially within his home country of South Africa where he famously championed sport as a vehicle of inspiration and social change.
"The way in which he galvanised the nation during the Springboks' Rugby World Cup triumph of 1995 is an indelible moment in history and an iconic example of Madiba's tremendous influence and ability to unite.
"Madiba was – and will continue to be – an inspiration to all through the courageous legacy he leaves behind. He will be sadly missed not only by the rugby family, but by the world as a whole."
South African Rugby Union President Oregan Hoskins said: "All our lives are poorer today at the extinguishing of the great beacon of light and hope that led the way for our country through the transition to democracy.
"We have been steeling ourselves for this day for some time but, now it has arrived, the sadness is no less. Madiba had a place in all our hearts and his passing is a personal blow to us all.
"Mr Mandela was also instrumental in retaining the Springbok as the emblem for our national team at a time when a chorus of voiced advocated a change of the symbol. It was an act of reconciliation and generosity of spirit which no one could have expected.
"The South African Rugby Union also sincerely appreciated the many times he inspired the Springboks to many great heights on the playing field. However, Mr Mandela inspired the entire South African nation with his kindness, generosity and ability not only to forgive, but also to understand his fellow citizens."
NZ Rugby CEO Steve Tew said: "New Zealand Rugby has enormous respect for Mr Mandela and his incredible contribution to his country and people.
"We have lost a champion for our game, a leader whose inspiration ensured Rugby World Cup in 1995 was a remarkable time for our sport and whose influence on sport has been far-reaching.
"His presentation of the Webb Ellis Cup to Francois Pienaar after South Africa overcame the All Blacks in the Final is a moment that few New Zealanders will ever forget."
Australian Rugby Union CEO Bill Pulver said: "On behalf of Australian Rugby, we extend our condolences to the Mandela family, South Africa and the South African rugby community.
"We admire Nelson Mandela’s immense courage and his ability to inspire millions around the world through his remarkable leadership and his ability to unite South Africa through rugby.
"His legacy on our game and our generation will be remembered and honoured."
Many players took to twitter to pay tribute to the impact that Mandela had on South Africa and rugby as a whole.
A day we knew was coming but hoped never would, a man we didn't have for long enough but left a lifelong legacy. Madiba we will never forget
— John Smit (@JohnSmit123) December 5, 2013
Rest In Peace Tata! You will always be remembered for everything you've done for us as a Nation. #Madiba
— siyamthanda (@kolisi1) December 5, 2013
R.I.P Tata Madiba ???? Thank you for the inspiration and hope. May your legacy live on forever. #forevergrateful #proudlySouthAfrican
— Bryan Habana (@BryanHabana) December 5, 2013
Sad news about the passing of Nelson Mandela – to be able meet him was the greatest privilege rugby offered me
— Will Carling (@willcarling) December 5, 2013
A sad day for our country. Rest in Peace Madiba. Condolences to his family and friends.
— Joostvdwesthuizen (@9Joost) December 5, 2013
Nelson Mandela used his life as a sacrifice for unity & equality. Lets pay it forward by following his example. Thank you Madiba! #RIP
— Pierre Spies (@Pierrespies8) December 6, 2013
Transcendent being , sublime prophet of our times who showed through peace, love and compassion anything is possible #Humbled #NelsonMandela
— Joe Van Niekerk (@bigjoevn) December 6, 2013
Nelson Mandela .. what a massive contributor to life in this country , to life on this planet ! Will live forever in our consciousness !
— Jonathan Kaplan (@RefJK) December 6, 2013
Deeply saddening news to wake up to, Rest in Peace Tata Madiba – you showed us the power of a dream through your courage and belief.
— Kyle Brown (@kylegbrown) December 6, 2013
RIP Nelson Mandela 🙁 Thank you for what you did for our country! You made the world a better place pic.twitter.com/L61jcMi2L9
— Francois Hougaard (@Francoishougi) December 6, 2013
What an inspiration to South Africa and to the world, thank you Madiba. We will never forget
— Peter Grant (@PeterGrant_) December 6, 2013
Never thought this day would come..RIP Tata pic.twitter.com/AKklYQI7dg
— Bandise Maku (@BandiseMaku) December 6, 2013
I met him only once and he said "Go well young man", I can now say the same….. RIP Nelson Mandela pic.twitter.com/ze5K3xEVwg
— Nick Evans (@nick10evans) December 5, 2013
Rest in peace Nelson Mandela. May his legacy live on. Condolences to the Mandela family #RIPNelsonMandela pic.twitter.com/QWPUjbHn4U
— Ryan Kankowski (@Kankowski) December 6, 2013
Rest in Peace Nelson Tata Madiba our hero. You will forever live in our hearts. My deepest condolences to the Mandela family.
— JP Pietersen (@jppietersen14) December 5, 2013
If there was ever an example in our history of how sport can unite, then the story of Mandela and the RWC95 was it..nothing but respect #RIP
— Jamie Roberts (@Jamiehuwroberts) December 5, 2013
.@lionsofficial joins @bokrugby & the rugby world in mourning the loss of Nelson Mandela. RIP Madiba pic.twitter.com/h18OjJW0Ma
— British&Irish Lions (@lionsofficial) December 5, 2013
