Photo by FAR EAST PRESS/AFLO/Shutterstock (14173105l) South Africa's Siya Kolisi celebrates after the 2023 Rugby World Cup Final match between New Zealand and South Africa at the Stade de France in Saint-Denis, France. 2023 Rugby World Cup, Saint-Denis, France - 28 Oct 2023
Springbok captain Siya Kolisi has confirmed his relationship with Dutch influencer Rachel John. The news surfaced during a holiday in Zimbabwe. The pair were seen together on a ferry on the Zambezi River. A fan recorded the moment, showing them smiling and waving. It marks their first clear public appearance as a couple.
Kolisi separated from his wife, Rachel Kolisi, in late 2024. They were married for eight years. They share two children. Their split was announced in a joint statement at the time.
Rumours linking Kolisi and John started months ago. They were first spotted courtside at a tennis match in Italy. Later sightings followed during overseas rugby trips and during her visits to South Africa. The pair continued to together, although quietly.
Kolisi also celebrated Rachel John’s 25th birthday with her in the Eastern Cape. The Zimbabwe trip is their first holiday as a confirmed couple. John hinted at the relationship on social media but avoided mentioning his name. In December, Kolisi commented on her Instagram post, writing “SA looks good on you”.
Rachel John is a Dutch‑Nigerian model, influencer and competitive kickboxer. She has more than a million followers across Instagram, TikTok and YouTube. Strong ties to South Africa. She founded the JBay Surf House in the Eastern Cape and runs women’s empowerment programmes abroad.
Her background is diverse. She competed in a Dutch reality series and won the Special Forces VIPS 2025. She is also an author. Her memoir details her journey with ADHD. It covers her mental health struggles and her decision to rebuild her life after moving to South Africa in 2021.
Kolisi’s confirmation signals a new chapter. The rugby captain remains one of South Africa’s most influential public figures. His ex‑wife, Rachel Kolisi, is preparing to launch her project, “Falling Forward”. The project explores themes of identity, healing, motherhood, and rediscovery after their separation.
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