Steyn to lead Cheetahs’ new era as Duncan steps down
NEWS: Frans Steyn is set to take charge of the Cheetahs’ high-performance drive as the union prepares for a leadership transition following CEO Rory Duncan’s impending exit.
The Bloemfontein outfit confirmed that Steyn, currently serving as director of rugby, will lead a renewed strategy aimed at blending the Cheetahs’ trademark attacking style with the modern systems required to compete at elite level.
Union officials stressed that the plan is focused on strengthening technical and structural foundations while preserving the identity that has long defined rugby in the Free State.
The 2026 season is being positioned as a pivotal phase, not only in terms of on-field results but also long-term sustainability and succession planning.
A key pillar of the strategy is reinforcing the Cheetahs’ standing as one of South Africa’s premier talent nurseries, ensuring a clear development pathway for players to thrive both domestically and abroad.
Free State Rugby also confirmed that Duncan will step down after steering a period of commercial stability. He will remain during the transition before taking up a new position as chief of staff at the Sharks.
While Duncan’s departure closes an important administrative chapter, the union has framed the shift as an evolution rather than a disruption, with double World Cup winner Steyn now at the forefront of rugby operations and tasked with guiding the Cheetahs into a new era without abandoning their Free State roots.
