Get ready for an exhilarating display of rugby prowess as the 2023 Toyota Challenge kicks off with electrifying matches between the Toyota Cheetahs and Western Force. This thrilling contest is set to take place on Friday, 25 August, and Saturday, 2 September, at Toyota Stadium in Bloemfontein. The excitement continues with matches scheduled for Friday, 29 September and Saturday, 7 October in the Spring Series in Perth, Australia.

Rugby enthusiasts, sports fans, and communities on both sides of the globe are eagerly anticipating this clash of titans. As in the previous two years, the 2023 Toyota Challenge promises to deliver riveting action, showcasing these two exceptional teams' dedication, skill, and determination.

The 2023 Toyota Challenge will again boast a total prize money of R1 million, with R250 000 awarded for each match. This significant prize money not only adds to the intensity of the competition but also recognises the outstanding efforts of the teams.

Match Schedule:

1. Friday, 25 August: Toyota Cheetahs vs Western Force – Toyota Stadium, Bloemfontein. Kick-off is at 17:00 (23:00 AWST)
2. Saturday, 2 September: Toyota Cheetahs vs Western Force – Toyota Stadium, Bloemfontein. Kick-off is at 15:00 (21:00 AWST)
3. Friday, 29 September: Western Force vs Toyota Cheetahs – Lane Group Stadium, Perth. Kick-off is at 13:00 (19:00 AWST)
4. Saturday, 7 October: Western Force vs Toyota Cheetahs – Revo Fitness Stadium, Perth. Kick-off is at 09:00 (15:00 AWST)

All games will be live on SuperSport and Stan Sports.

Both teams have a storied history of intense competition and remarkable sportsmanship. The two teams entered SuperRugby in 2006 when the tournament was extended from Super12 to Super14, and both teams were axed at the end of the 2017 tournament. Their last encounter was on 2 July 2016 in Toyota Stadium, Bloemfontein.

The Toyota Cheetahs and Western Force have had 10 previous encounters, each winning five. The teams met six times at the Toyota Stadium and four times in Perth. This adds an extra layer of excitement and anticipation to the upcoming matches.

Fans supporting their favourite teams at the Toyota Stadium and on social media will have much to look forward to. In addition to the prizes for the winning teams, cash prizes will be up for grabs for fans during the Toyota Challenge.

Leon Theron, Senior Vice President Sales & Marketing Toyota South Africa Motors (Toyota), says: “It’s world cup season and it is only fitting that we kickoff the festivities with the launch of the third annual Toyota Challenge. This event stands as a living testament to our unwavering dedication to rugby in South Africa. I look forward to seeing the two southern hemisphere teams back in action after seven years. This gripping competition will ignite the flames of sportsmanship and bridge the gap between two exceptional never-say-die teams”.

Ross van Reenen, CEO of the Toyota Cheetahs, expressed his anticipation for the upcoming challenge, stating: "We are thrilled to present the 2023 Toyota Challenge, bringing together the Toyota Cheetahs and Western Force in a series of unforgettable rugby battles. These matches will showcase sporting talent and foster camaraderie and the enduring spirit of sportsmanship. This tournament will be testament to the unyielding spirit of rugby that binds us together."

"We extend our gratitude to Toyota South Africa for their unwavering support in making the 2023 Toyota Challenge a reality," added Van Reenen. "Their commitment to promoting sports and fostering community engagement aligns perfectly with the spirit of this tournament, and we are proud to have them as our esteemed partner and main sponsor."

Western Force CEO Tony Lewis echoed the sentiments: "The initiative to broaden the game of rugby to all regions of Western Australia is necessary for the game's growth. The Western Force is honoured to participate in the 2023 Toyota Challenge, which promises to be a thrilling contest between two formidable teams. This series will undoubtedly captivate rugby fans worldwide, and we are excited to bring our best game to the field, leaving nothing to chance."

Spectators and fans alike can expect a showcase of intense rivalries, strategic gameplay, and unforgettable moments that will be etched into rugby history.

For ticketing information, event updates, and exclusive content, visit the Toyota Cheetahs' official website www.cheetahs.rugby. Follow us on social media (@CheetahsRugby) for behind-the-scenes glimpses, player interviews, and more.

Tickets will be available online at www.ticketpro.co.za at R100 for the main stand, R50 for the open stand and R30 for kids.

Join us in celebrating the world-class sport of rugby and the spirit of competition as the Toyota Cheetahs and Western Force vie for supremacy in the 2023 Toyota Challenge!

Previous SuperRugby Encounters:

6/5/2006 - Bloemfontein: Western Force won 14-16

27/4/2007 – Perth: Western Force won 45-17

22/2/2008 - Bloemfontein: Western Force won 15-16

20/2/2009 – Perth: Western Force won 16-10

8/5/2010 – Bloemfontein: Toyota Cheetahs won 29-14

2011 – Toyota Cheetahs and Western Force didn't play against each other

5/5/2012 - Bloemfontein: Toyota Cheetahs won 17-13

23/3/2013 – Perth: Toyota Cheetahs won 10-19

10/5/2014 - Bloemfontein: Western Force won 16-23

11/4/2015 – Perth: Toyota Cheetahs won 15-24

2/7/2016 – Bloemfontein: Toyota Cheetahs won 30-29

Stats by Frikkie Janse van Rensburg

For media inquiries, please contact:

Ronel Pienaar (GM Communications, ronel@fsrugby.co.za | +27 84 384 4455