Icons Cup South Africa 2026 announced

The Icons Series today officially announces its debut in Africa with the launch of the Icons Cup South Africa, taking place from 11–13 December 2026.

Staged at South Africa’s top-ranked golf course, The Links at Fancourt in George, this disruptive golf entertainment phenomenon will bring 28 of the world’s biggest game-changers out of their usual arenas to do battle on the golf course. The intense three-day match-play tournament will pit Team South Africa against Team World, testing whether the planet's most iconic athletes can successfully switch sports and win on a global stage.

Designed for the modern sports fan, the Icons Series reimagines the intersection of world-class sport and premium digital entertainment, providing rare inside-the-ropes access and a fast-paced team environment. The high-stakes event will be broadcasting live globally to over 150 countries across international networks and digital platforms, showcasing world-class golf production blended with entertainment-led storytelling.

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‍CAPTAINS:

The inaugural South African edition launches with a world class tier of leadership and crossover star power.  

• Ernie Els - Team South Africa Captain: Four-time Major Champion and local icon Ernie Els will captain Team South Africa on home soil, rallying his team and local support as they attempt to claim the Icons Trophy.

• José María Olazábal - Team World Captain: Two-time Masters Champion and Ryder Cup icon José María Olazábal will assemble a team of icons from around the world, hoping to come to George and spoil the party.  

With national pride and global bragging rights on the line, the captains have wasted no time building out their rosters of highly competitive, golf-passionate superstars.  

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TEAM SOUTH AFRICA:

• AB de Villiers: One of the most destructive cricket batsmen in modern history and a treasured national sporting icon. Now known as a serious golfer, AB plays the game regularly and boasts a low handicap of 2.3.

• Fourie du Preez: A Springbok rugby icon and World Cup winner, widely regarded as one of the greatest scrum-halves in rugby history. A fierce competitor with a razor-sharp tactical mind, du Preez brings his legendary winning instinct to the fairways of Fancourt.

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TEAM WORLD:

• John Terry: Iconic former Chelsea and England captain, celebrated as one of the most decorated and commanding defenders in football history. No stranger to high-pressure arenas, Terry is a deeply passionate, single-figure handicap golfer ready to fight for Team World.

• Brian Lara: One of the greatest cricketers of all time, the West Indian batting genius is renowned for his exquisite timing and flair, Lara’s sporting elegance translates seamlessly to his highly competitive golf game.

Over three days of fierce team match-play, these global icons will bring their professional winning instincts and decades of competitive rivalry directly to the fairways, bringing fans closer to the action than ever before.

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Thomas Brookes, Founder and CEO of Icons Series, commented: "The Icons Series is built on the unifying power, unscripted drama, and patriotism of sport. We are thrilled to bring this world-first concept to South Africa, a nation with an unmatched sporting heritage and some of the most passionate fans on earth. The Links at Fancourt provides a spectacular, world-class stage to witness 28 of the greatest athletes of our generation put their reputations on the line."

Ernie Els, Team South Africa Captain, added: "Leading Team South Africa on home soil at a magnificent venue like Fancourt is a massive honor. We know Team World is bringing serious firepower, but we are assembling a squad of true South African winners. AB de Villiers and Fourie du Preez are perfect first additions - they are fierce competitors who know exactly what it means to defend home turf. We’re ready to show the world how we play the game."

José María Olazábal, Team World Captain, commented: "South Africa has an incredibly rich sporting heritage, and Fancourt is a magnificent, world-class test of golf. But Team World is not traveling to George to enjoy the scenery. Ernie is a fantastic champion and he will have a passionate home crowd behind him, but I am assembling a team of icons. We will be fiercely competitive and will know how to win under pressure, and we are fully prepared to spoil the home-soil party this December."

While thousands of local and travelling spectators will gather at Fancourt to experience the raw atmosphere, global audiences can follow every moment live. Full broadcast partner networks, streaming schedules, and additional superstar roster drops will be announced in the coming weeks.

Tickets and exclusive hospitality packages go on sale today. Get your tickets now.

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