Irish side Ulster have confirmed that prop Steven Kitshoff will leave the club at the end of the season to return to the Stormers.  

The prop joined Ulster after the end of the Rugby World Cup final in October last year, having signed a three-year contract.  

The contract was confirmed by Ulster in 2022, but Kitsie will only spend one season with the Irish side, which was previously the home of former Boks number 8 Duane Vermeulen. 

“The club and player have mutually agreed to draw the Springbok’s three-year contract to an early close, with Kitshoff set to re-sign with the Cape Town-based club he captained before arriving in Belfast,” said the Irish side in its statement.  

The loosehead prop, who started the World Cup final against the All Blacks, was at the Stormers between 2017 and 2023 before joining Ulster on a three-year deal.    

Kitshoff is a cult hero at the club, having led the Stormers to the inaugural title of the United Rugby Championship (URC) in 2022 before losing the same competition last season. 

The 32-year-old told Sportwire recently of his admiration for working with the new director of rugby – John Dobson again at the Stormers.  

“Dobbo is a great coach, I think he’s got unbelievable skills in the way he treats his players,” said Kitshoff.  

“Everyone has a willingness to buy into the plan and an overall picture of what the Stormers brand stands for.  

“So, I have a big admiration for Dobbo for the way he goes about his business, including the coaching staff. I think they have got something special brewing there and hopefully; we can spoil the party this coming.”  

He then revealed on his decision to leave Ulster in just one season. 

“Since arriving in Belfast, I have really enjoyed my time in the Ulster jersey, and it’s been a privilege to be a part of such a great group of players and support staff. 

“Ulster will always have a place in my heart, and I’m grateful to the supporters who welcomed me to a club and province that is undoubtedly a very special place.” 

Kitshoff was part of the Ulster side that lost to the Stormers in the United Vodacom Rugby Championship at DHL Stadium this past weekend. He has featured in 12 matches for Ulster this season.