What Happened to Cheslin Kolbe? Why Did He Leave Toulouse? Where is He Going?
by Sona | Updated May 30, 2023
Who is Cheslin Kolbe?
Cheslin Kolbe is a professional rugby union player from South Africa. He currently represents the South Africa national team and primarily plays as a wing, although he is also proficient at fullback. Kolbe has showcased his versatility by featuring at fly half for Toulouse in the top 14 league and as a scrum half for the South African team.
Kolbe's impressive rugby journey includes being a member of the South Africa Sevens team that secured a bronze medal at the 2016 Summer Olympics. He was also a crucial part of the South Africa squad that clinched the 2019 Rugby World Cup, contributing a crucial try in the final moments of the decisive match.
In recognition of his outstanding performances, Kolbe was nominated for the prestigious World Rugby Player of the Year award in 2019. Known for his exceptional skills, speed, and agility, Kolbe is widely regarded as one of the best players in the world. He has represented various teams throughout his career, including Toulouse in the Top14, the Stormers in Super Rugby, and Western Province in the Currie Cup.
Kolbe has achieved remarkable success, winning the Rugby World Cup, Rugby Championship, and Lions Series with the South African national team, as well as the Top14 and Champions Cup with Toulouse and the Currie Cup with Western Province.
Kolbe's contract with RC Toulonnais extends until 2024, and he continues to make significant contributions to the sport. With nine tries in 18 international tests for South Africa, he has consistently displayed his try-scoring prowess. Despite his relatively small stature, Kolbe's finishing skills, speed, and ability to sidestep opponents have earned him widespread recognition.
Off the field, Kolbe is associated with Roc Nation, the Gilbert rugby family, Laureus, and Nike. In 2021, he was honored as the SA Players Player of the Year, further cementing his status as a highly respected figure in the rugby community.
What Happened to Cheslin Kolbe?
Toulon has officially announced the departure of South African winger Cheslin Kolbe at the end of the season, putting an end to months of speculation. Despite having a year remaining on his contract, both Toulon and Kolbe have mutually agreed to part ways.
The decision comes after widespread reports from French media outlets L'Equipe and Midi Olympique suggesting that Kolbe would be leaving the Stade Mayol after the current season. Although Kolbe's future destination has not been disclosed, there have been rumors linking him to a potential move to Japan's Suntory Sungoliath.
After joining Toulon in 2021 from Toulouse, the Springboks superstar will bid farewell to the club. During his tenure with Toulon, Kolbe played a pivotal role in their victorious campaign, helping them secure their first-ever Challenge Cup title. His outstanding performance in the final even earned him the title of Man of the Match.
Why Did Cheslin Kolbe Leave Toulouse?
Cheslin Kolbe has parted ways with Toulon, his former club, three months before South Africa's title defense in the World Cup. The French club confirmed the departure and cited mutual agreement between Kolbe and Toulon as the reason. In a statement, Toulon mentioned that Kolbe will be able to pursue a new project starting from the 2023-2024 season.
Financial constraints and injuries were factors that contributed to Kolbe's decision to leave Toulon. Despite facing an ankle sprain that kept him out of action for a month, the 29-year-old winger managed to score six tries in 18 matches during the season. Expressing his thoughts on the club's website, Kolbe mentioned his desire to stay at Toulon but acknowledged the challenges posed by financial constraints and injuries.
With one year remaining on his contract, Kolbe has been the subject of interest from clubs in Japan, as reported by French rugby media over the past few months.
Where is Cheslin Kolbe Going?
Cheslin Kolbe, the renowned Springbok winger, will be departing from the French club Toulon at the conclusion of the 2022/23 season. This decision comes after Kolbe played a significant role in Toulon's triumph in the EPCR Challenge Cup, securing their first title in the competition. Toulon officially announced the mutual agreement to part ways with Kolbe in a statement released on Monday.
While the specific destination of Kolbe's next move has not been disclosed, it is expected that he will reveal this information in the near future. The news of Kolbe's impending departure has sparked interest and speculation among rugby enthusiasts worldwide, eager to learn which club will have the privilege of securing his exceptional talents. As the announcement draws closer, fans eagerly await the next chapter in Cheslin Kolbe's illustrious rugby career.
Cheslin Kolbe Salary
Cheslin Kolbe has an estimated net worth of $3 million and earns a yearly salary of approximately $500,000 from his rugby career. In addition to his club contract, Kolbe also generates income through brand endorsements. Despite his young age, he quickly established himself as a professional rugby player of great talent and skill.
Previously, Kolbe was contracted with Toulouse until the conclusion of the 2022-23 season. Toulon acquired his services by paying a transfer fee of €1.8 million (£1.54 million), which covered the remaining two years of Kolbe's contract. This contract with Toulouse was valued at €900,000 (£770,000) per year.
Cheslin Kolbe Wife
Cheslin Kolbe is happily married to his wife, Layla Cupido, who is a chartered accountant. They have been in a relationship since 2013 and tied the knot in 2019. The couple has two beautiful daughters named Kylah and Mila Skye.
Layla, with her professional background as a chartered accountant, adds a different dimension to their relationship. Cheslin and Layla first crossed paths at a rugby game in 2013, and their connection has grown stronger ever since. They openly express their love and admiration for each other on social media platforms, garnering a significant following and serving as role models for many young individuals in South Africa.
Their story resonates with people who admire their strong bond and shared journey. Cheslin Kolbe and Layla Cupido epitomize a loving and supportive partnership, reflecting their commitment to each other both on and off the rugby field.
Cheslin Kolbe Weight
Cheslin Kolbe, standing at a height of 1.71 meters (5 feet 7 and a half inches), weighs approximately 75 kilograms. His weight is an important aspect of his physical profile as a rugby player. Maintaining an optimal weight is crucial for his performance on the field, allowing him to excel in terms of speed, agility, and overall athleticism.
As a professional athlete, Kolbe's weight is carefully managed and monitored to ensure he remains in peak physical condition. The combination of his height and weight contributes to his agility and ability to maneuver through tight spaces, making him a formidable force on the rugby field. With his compact build and exceptional skills, Kolbe has proven that size is not a limiting factor when it comes to excelling in the sport of rugby.
What Happened to Cheslin Kolbe? FAQs
Cheslin Kolbe is a professional rugby union player from South Africa. He currently represents the South Africa national team and primarily plays as a wing, although he is also proficient at fullback.
Cheslin Kolbe primarily plays as a wing in rugby, although he is also skilled at playing fullback.
Yes, Cheslin Kolbe will be leaving Toulon at the end of the 2022/23 season. Toulon announced their mutual agreement to part ways with him.
The specific destination of Cheslin Kolbe's next move has not been announced yet. He is expected to reveal his next move soon.
Cheslin Kolbe has an estimated net worth of $3 million.