Cheetahs provide update on CEO status
It has been a tumultuous period for the Cheetahs, not only on the field but off it as well.
The Bloemfontein outfit were on the brink of missing out on Currie Cup qualification, but revived their hopes by ending Griquas’ unbeaten run with a dramatic 32-31 victory in their SA Cup Round Nine clash last weekend.
They will now face the Pumas in the SA Cup semifinal this weekend.
While the players continue to battle for survival between the four white lines, a similar challenge is happening in the boardroom, with the Board of Directors of Free State Cheetahs (Pty) Ltd still searching for a new Chief Executive Officer (CEO).
The position became vacant in February following the sudden resignation of Rory Duncan after just one year at the helm of the Bloemfontein-based franchise.
The former Currie Cup-winning Cheetahs captain succeeded Ross van Reenen in 2025 before taking up a new role as chief of staff at the Sharks in Durban.
In an official statement, the Cheetahs board confirmed they are taking a measured approach in appointing Duncan’s successor.
“We believe it is essential not to rush this process, as the right selection is crucial for the franchise’s future,” the statement read.
“Instead of an immediate appointment, the Free State Cheetahs (Pty) Ltd are currently following a full-scale strategic plan driven by private investment.”
According to the franchise, the strategy is built around three core pillars:
Commercial – Strengthening the Cheetahs brand and expanding revenue streams.
Finance – Ensuring fiscal stability and sustainable growth through strategic capital management.
Rugby Department – Maintaining excellence on the field while ensuring players and coaches receive the support needed to perform at the highest level.
“By prioritising this strategic plan, we are ensuring that the company, the brand and the team continue to build on a solid foundation while the search for the ideal CEO candidate continues in the background,” the statement added.
