Share

Zuma declares official funeral for Joost

Cape Town - President Jacob Zuma has declared a Special Provincial Official Funeral for the late former Springbok captain and South African rugby legend, Joost van der Westhuizen, who passed away from motor neuron disease on Monday.

LIVE: Joost van der Westhuizen memorial service

Van der Westhuizen, 45, will be remembered for his splendid talent and excellent leadership that he displayed in the national rugby team and in the sports community at large which made him one of the best rugby players that the country has ever produced.

President Zuma, on behalf of government and all South Africans, conveyed his heartfelt condolences to Van der Westhuizen’s family and all in the sports fraternity.

Zuma ordered that national flag at all flag stations in the Gauteng province be flown at half-mast on Friday.


We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
26% - 1273 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
29% - 1470 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2246 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE