Franco Smith's son to play for Boks' RWC rivals?
TRANSFER NEWS: The Sharks announced the departure of one of their flyhalves to Italian United Rugby Championship outfit Benetton.
No.10 Jean Smith, son of Springbok and current Glasgow Warriors head coach Franco Smith, will join the Treviso-based side at the conclusion of the current URC season.
The flyhalf, born in Treviso whilst his dad Franco played for Benetton, is eligible for the Italian national side, and consistent game time in the URC could push him closer to national selection with the 2027 World Cup in mind, where the Boks will face Italy in their opening clash.
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Jean will depart at the end of the season to Benetton 🇮🇹
We’re wishing you all the best on your next chapter @smith_jean_ 🖤 pic.twitter.com/jRwAPZV1Bi
— The Sharks (@SharksRugby) February 17, 2026
Smith represented the Sharks in various competitions as well as South Africa at Under-16, Under-18 and Under-20 levels.
Smith’s move comes as no surprise, with the Sharks already having Bok Jordan Hendrikse, Siya Masuku, and Vusi Moyo, with Gianni Lombard joining from the Lions on their books.