The Free State MEC for Small Business Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs, Thabo Meeko, has called on citizens to back the men’s national rugby team at a fan park that will screen the 2023 Rugby World Cup final.
Entrance will be free at the SaamTrek Fan Park – Phakisa Raceway. In the final match of the tournament, the Springboks take on the All Blacks on Saturday, at Stade de France in Paris.
According the MEC, additional activities and entertainment include a kiddies’ village, biker stunts show, car drifting, music performances, food stalls, and tourism products exhibitions.
RELATED STORY: Sports portfolio committee congratulates Springboks.
Meeko said that the events of Tourism SaamTrek magnitude are aimed at positively impacting the local economy by getting more visitors to Matjhabeng Local Municipality and provide the necessary exposure and awareness to the tourism economy in the region.
“This initiative responds to the Free State Provincial Tourism Sector Strategy 2020 – 2030, which states that sports tourism is one of the fastest-growing sectors, with various sports events that can attract tourists and provide authentic local experiences,” the MEC said.
Meanwhile, World Rugby has announced that there is insufficient evidence to proceed with charges against South African rugby player Mbongeni Mbonambi.
Mbonambi was accused by England’s Tom Curry of using discriminatory language during the England versus South Africa Rugby World Cup semi-final last Saturday.
In a statement issued on Thursday, World Rugby said, “Any allegation of discrimination is taken extremely seriously by World Rugby, warranting a thorough investigation. Having considered all the available evidence, including match footage, audio and evidence from both teams, the governing body has determined that there is insufficient evidence at this time to proceed with charges.
“Therefore, the matter is deemed closed unless additional evidence comes to light.”
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