Jake White pens huge, multi-year contract with Bulls

Bulls director of rugby, Jake White, has committed his long-term future to Pretoria after penning a contract extension that will see him stay at Loftus Versfeld until 2027.

The 58-year-old joined the Bulls in 2020 and has overseen a renaissance in the side's fortunes since. The 2007 World Cup-winning coach took them to two back-to-back Carling Currie Cup titles as well as the Vodacom Super Rugby Unlocked crown in his first season.

Last season saw the Bulls come within millimetres of the URC title in their inaugural campaign, only for the side to fall short against the Stormers.

A new five-year contract will see him lead the Bulls into their first ever Heineken Champions Cup.

“It gives me great joy to be able to commit for a long-term period to the Vodacom Bulls," said White. "This gives me comfort and confidence in continuing to build a strong team that will compete and be counted among the best rugby sides in the world."

“I’m grateful to the Blue Bulls Company board, staff and players for their support and confidence in me. I look forward to continuing to work towards elevating the Vodacom Bulls brand and adding more trophies to our cabinet over the next five years.”

World Cup aside, White has impressive CV, with productive stints with the likes of the Brumbies in Australia, the Cell C Sharks in South Africa, Montpellier in France and Toyota Verblitz in Japan.

“We are thrilled to announce that the Vodacom Bulls director of rugby, Jake White, has committed to remain with the team until 2027,” confirmed Blue Bulls Company CEO, Edgar Rathbone on Friday.

“Jake has had an immeasurable influence at the Vodacom Bulls since his arrival two years ago and continues to build a formidable side that is set to compete against the best in the globe. His records speak for themselves and with this long-term commitment, we can rest assured that he is committed to take the Vodacom Bulls to greater heights over the next few years.”

White was also inducted into the World Rugby Hall of Fame in 2011.