Honour, family and philanthropy: Why humbled Siya Kolisi chose to make his French move

A typically humble Siya Kolisi reiterated that he's not a self-made man and that his eye-catching move to French club Racing 92 at the conclusion of this year's World Cup - confirmed early on Tuesday - has been made possible again by the "immense contributions of so many people in my life".

The inspirational Springbok captain, whose life story of impoverished youngster to one of South Africa's most recognisable sportsmen has become the stuff of legend, duly wants to honour those individuals' sacrifices with his new Paris-based gig.

"It is these positive influences that have resulted in me becoming both the man, and the rugby player, I am today," Kolisi said in a statement released on his respective social media accounts.

"It has always been my desire to honour these contributions by making most of every opportunity that I receive."

The 31-year-old loose forward had as recently as last May extended his terms with the Sharks to 2027, but reports began surfacing late last year that the French giants had commenced discussions with him and clinched his signature.

Given his hectic playing schedule over the past several years, Kolisi unsurprisingly cited a desire to change his family dynamics as a major consideration for his move.

"Rachel and the kids have sacrificed so much throughout my career, and I am immeasurably grateful for this," he said.

"The move to Racing 92 will enable me to spend more time with my family, which is something that I have longed for, and this prospect certainly played a significant part in my decision-making."[Also], not many athletes get the chance to write the chapters of their respective stories and I view this new challenge as an opportunity to do this."

My statement on joining @racing92 after the 2023