Springboks star Eben Etzebeth has kicked off 2026 with an exciting splash, showcasing his latest luxury toy: a stunning blue Mercedes G-Wagon. This towering rugby lock is not just winning on the field, he's stealing the spotlight off of it!
After announcing a new endorsement deal with an outdoor gear brand on January 8, Etzebeth delighted his fans the very next day by unveiling his newest ride on Instagram.
“2026 couldn’t have started any better. Thank you, Mercedes-Benz SA, for putting me in the Top Dog.”
The luxurious Mercedes G-Wagon AMG is estimated to be valued anywhere between R4.4 million and R6 million in South Africa, depending on its specifications. Fans are abuzz with excitement over his new wheels, and even Springboks captain Siya Kolisi couldn’t resist chiming in!
Fan Reactions to the G-Wagon
South African fans took to social media to share their congratulations and playful comments:
@mrdanger:
“Good for you. Love it.”
@snetemba:
“You deserve it. This and many more finer things.”
@rooikos:
“Sheeeesh. You make that vehicle look like a small car.”
@your_archange:
“My fav Bok star my role model.”
@jaqlynhr:
“A car you can fit in at least you make it look normal size.”
@thenorthern_king:
“Only Eben can make a G-Wagon look like a Kia Picanto.”
Etzebeth's Remarkable Journey in 2025
Throughout 2025, Etzebeth has had a whirlwind year, releasing his memoir Unlocked, which gives fans an intimate glimpse into his life outside the rugby pitch. The book touches on controversial topics, including the 2019 Langebaan brawl allegations, harrowing losses to the All Blacks, and even his childhood ambition of wrestling in the WWE. It also delves into how former Springboks coach Heyneke Meyer’s departure mid-tour reshaped his views on leadership and resilience.
This past year was not just about work; he and his wife, Anlia, welcomed their second child, bringing joy to their family.
Even though he faced deregistration from the Sharks late in 2025, Etzebeth continues to contribute, taking on a role within the club's coaching staff. With an impressive 130 Test caps under his belt and a debut back in 2012, he's become a formidable force on the rugby field, clinching two Rugby World Cups with South Africa in 2019 and 2023.
Etzebeth's net worth is making headlines too! Estimated at around R38 million (approximately $2 to $5 million), these figures reflect the varied nature of earnings in professional rugby, where contracts, bonuses, and endorsements can significantly shift year to year.
Etzebeth's Insights on Springboks' Mindset
Recently, Etzebeth opened up about a tumultuous period for South African rugby, citing chaotic dynamics within the team as a contributing factor to their unexpected defeat to the All Blacks in 2016. The aftermath of the 2015 Rugby World Cup brought challenges under new coach Allister Coetzee, but with players like Etzebeth at the forefront, the spirit of South African rugby remains as resilient as ever.
No comments yet. Be the first to share your thoughts!