Friends in high places: Springboks Mapimpi, Am join Kolisi as Mercedes SA ambassadors

Springbok rugby players Lukhanyo Am and Makazole Mapimpi were announced as ambassadors for Mercedes-Benz South Africa, joining captain Siya Kolisi as the German automaker's Friends of the brand.

As part of the new partnership, the two Springboks will each drive a brand new C43 4Matic AMG for the next year, in addition to their other responsibilities.

According to Mercedes-Benz SA, Am will work closely with Mercedes-Benz Financial Services, while Mapimpi will be an ambassador for the Mercedes-Benz Cars division.

"This relationship is a big deal to me because Mercedes-Benz has been a well-known brand since I was growing up," says Am. "It's always been a big deal where I'm from, and it's special, as everyone aspired to drive and own a Mercedes-Benz."

Mapimpi echoed his teammate's comments, saying that it was a dream come true.

"I have always wanted to work with Mercedes-Benz since I played for the Border Bulldogs," he says. "For me, it was my motivation to even stay on the team as there was talk at some stage of Mercedes-Benz being a sponsor. I never thought I would work with a brand as big as Mercedes."

Am and Mapimpi are signed to the Sharks rugby team and hope to make the Springbok squad for this year's Rugby World Cup, which will take place in France between 8 September and 28 October.