The DHL Stormers have confirmed that Springbok utility back Damian Willemse has signed a new deal, securing his stay with the club until 2027.

Willemse, who missed all of last year’s Springbok tests due to a fractured finger, including the Rugby Championship triumph, had been linked with a move to Irish side Leinster, potentially reuniting with former Springbok coach Jacques Nienaber.

Nienaber led the Springboks to victory in the 2021 British and Irish Lions series and the successful defense of the Rugby World Cup in 2023 before departing for Ireland.

“Despite media speculation, the DHL Stormers can confirm that Damian Willemse will not be leaving the club to take up any offers, as he remains contracted until 2027,” stated a DHL Stormers press release.

“Willemse currently has 97 caps for the DHL Stormers, having made his debut straight out of school in 2017.

“He signed a groundbreaking five-year contract in 2022, the year he lifted the Vodacom URC trophy with his teammates in Cape Town.

“Willemse will not be accepting any alternative offers, despite further speculation, some of which was presented as an April Fool’s joke, although many clubs around the world are obviously interested in securing the services of the double World Cup winner.”

The popular Willemse, who famously wore the World Cup final jersey during the trophy tour in the country which he played against New Zealand in the final, has played 39 Tests since his Springbok debut in 2018.