The Springbok legend who now runs an energy company owned by a South African billionaire
Victor Matfield, a World Cup-winning Springbok, serves as chief executive of Bohlale Energy, which is backed by billionaire businessman Patrice Motsepe’s African Rainbow Capital.
Matfield was born on 11 May 1977 in Pietersburg. He grew up in a sporting family and initially focused on cricket.
However, when an injury affected his batting and bowling, he decided to pursue rugby and was selected for the Far North junior Craven Week team.
After he matriculated, he studied accounting at the University of Pretoria and was selected for the U21 side. He also played for the Blue Bulls under-21 side.
Matfield left the Blue Bulls for the Griquas in 1999, during which time he was also selected to represent the Cats in the Super 12.
He was a standout player, and in 2000, he was given the opportunity to represent the Blue Bulls again.
He showed his talent and was soon selected as a Springbok, partnering with long-time Blue Bulls lock, Bakkies Botha.
He was a key figure in South Africa’s 2007 Rugby World Cup victory through his dominance in lineouts and was named IRB Rugby World Cup Player of the Tournament.
During his career, he captained the Springboks, the Bulls, and the Blue Bulls and is widely seen as one of the greatest locks of all time.
Matfield amassed a record number of Springbok caps at the time of his initial retirement in 2011. He returned to the game in 2014.
His achievements include three Currie Cup titles, three Super Rugby titles, two Tri-Nations titles, and the 2007 Rugby World Cup.
After he retired from international rugby after the 2015 World Cup, he became a speaker and rugby analyst, serving as a SuperSport presenter.
As a speaker, he shares insights into leadership, teamwork, and peak performance at corporate events, leadership summits, and sporting conferences.
“Matfield brings clarity, passion, and real-world lessons from one of the toughest team environments in the world,” his speaking agency said.
Victor Matfield as Bohlale Energy CEO
Matfield was appointed Bohlale Energy’s chief executive in March 2026, with a focus on expanding his business opportunities.
Bohlale Energy is a reliable bulk fuel supplier in South Africa, specialising in the wholesale and distribution of high-quality diesel, petrol, and paraffin.
It is a joint venture between Motsepe’s African Rainbow Capital Services and Agrisa Commodities that provides innovative fuel supply solutions.
As with many African Rainbow Capital companies, Bohlale Energy has a strong focus on its black economic empowerment (BEE) credentials.
With over 51% black ownership, the company offers level 2 procurement recognition, ensuring maximum Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment procurement points.
“These attributes place Bohlale in a unique position, having access to financial muscle and qualifying as a BEE preferred supplier,” the company said.
Bohlale Energy said it is led by a team with more than 100 years of combined experience across the most prominent areas of the petroleum value chain.
“We have standing agreements with most major petroleum companies in South Africa, ensuring product reliability and sustainability of national supply,” it said.
Commenting on Matfield’s appointment, the company said that it offers him a great opportunity to learn and expand his career.
“He has significantly expanded his reach into numerous industries, places, and possibilities,” Bohlale Energy said.
Victor Matfield photos
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