Back in blue. After seven years of rugby in England, loose forward Hanro Liebenberg will return to the Bulls ahead of the new season.
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It was a tough decision to leave England, but the call to come home and represent the Bulls was simply too powerful for former Junior Springbok captain Hanro Liebenberg to ignore.
After seven memorable years with Leicester Tigers, the versatile loose forward is returning to Pretoria to rejoin the Bulls ahead of the 2026/27 season — a homecoming that feels as meaningful as any trophy he has lifted.
Liebenberg leaves England as a proven leader and champion with over 141 appearances for the Tigers. He scored 31 tries and famously helped steer the club to the 2022 Premiership title. It was a period that shaped him, not only as a player but as a person.
“I came here as a young boy and did not know what to expect,” Liebenberg said in a Leicester Tigers interview.
“This club has taken me in as one of their own. I feel part of a family and the love and support the people have given me, it is alot more than rugby to me. Leicester Tigers will always be a part of me. It is a very difficult decision in my rugby career, but it is one that has to be taken and one I will look back on with very fond memories.
“The club, the tropies are special, but the thing I will remember is the people.”
Reflecting on his return, Liebenberg admitted that it was one of the toughest decisions of his career because of how much he love Leicester. However, the call of home and the opportunity to represent the Bulls again was something he simply couldn't ignore.
“I left Pretoria as a young player looking to test myself abroad, and I’m returning with a lot more experience and a deep desire to contribute to the success of this squad. Loftus is where it all started for me, and I can’t wait to run out onto that field again in front of the fans who supported me from day one. My family and I are excited to be back among our people.”
It is a significant signing for the Bulls, who already have a plethora of brilliant loose forwards in their stable. Liebenberg will not just add more firepower, but also vital experience that could be critical for the Loftus side as they continue their European journey.
“Bringing a player of Hanro’s calibre back to Loftus is a special moment for this union. He isn't just a world-class loose forward; he is a man who understands the DNA of the Bulls,” CEO Edgar Rathbone said.
“During his seven years in England, we watched him grow into a formidable leader and a champion, and to have him choose to return home to finish his career in Pretoria speaks volumes about the culture we are building here. We’ve remained in close contact with Hanro and his family over the years, and we are thrilled to welcome him, Danielle, and Lucah back to the Bulls family.”
Liebenberg will officially rejoin the Bulls at the end of the current season.