Money maker: Why Springboks, All Blacks are playing in Baltimore

The Springboks and All Blacks will conclude their four-Test series in Baltimore on Saturday, with this final match interestingly taking place at a neutral venue.

For those who may be wondering why New Zealand’s ‘tour to South Africa’ actually ends in America, there are some pretty transparent reasons behind the decision.

In exact estimations revealed by the New York Times, “the match will be played in Baltimore on Saturday because it is expected to generate substantially more cash, potentially up to $8million”.

That amounts to a whopping R129,370,876 in total, with the report stating that the “two unions will share the profits 50–50, including income from tickets, hospitality, food and drink, sponsorship, broadcasting and merchandise”.

All in all, this means SA Rugby could be in line to bank as much as R64,685,438.

Money game a key reason behind Springboks-All Blacks Test in Baltimore

In the report by the New York Times, SA Rugby CEO Rian Oberholzer acknowledged: “We wouldn’t be doing it if it wasn’t substantial.”

It’s further reported by the Daily Maverick that each of the first three Tests earned between R60-million and R80-million, but that “SARU and NZR will each make R90-million more from the Baltimore game”.

“The inflated Baltimore income includes a fee from World Rugby, which is incentivising teams to play matches in the US in the lead-up to RWC 2031 in that country,” the report further states.

So although it’s impossible to settle on one exact figure, it’s clear that there are huge financial gains behind this decision to finish the series with a marquee match in the USA.

Lots to play for

Of course, it all leads to a unique experience for both teams, while providing financial gains for both unions, and opens doors to a new market.

“Taking the Springboks to new audiences and territories is a key objective for South African rugby,” Oberholzer commented when this tour match was announced.

“The opportunity to do so in a ground-breaking match against our fiercest rivals was a major determinant in where the fourth Test would be played.

“With fans getting the opportunity to see the Boks in action against the All Blacks in three home Tests, the chance to share the excitement in the US is an exciting one, compounded by the fact that both men’s and women’s Rugby World Cups will be heading to the US in a few years’ time.

“While the All Blacks have played in the USA often in the past, the Boks have only played there twice this millennium, and we’re very excited to take them to Baltimore and engage with a developing rugby ecosystem.”

Saturday’s match kicks off at 23:00 (SA time).