Johannesburg, 24 August 2026.  Since entering into a strategic partnership with Hyundai Automotive South Africa earlier this year, former Springboks and World Cup-winning Captain, John Smit has is utilizing his business networks, commercial experience and credibility to strengthen and create commercial opportunities for the brand.

This morning, Smit and Hyundai hosted a Corporate Customers Business Breakfast in Bedfordview, attended by 100 guests from the fleet, rental, government and broader business sectors.  He utilized the occasion to share practical lessons on leadership, business planning, teamwork and performance.

“John has brought more than a famous name to Hyundai,” said Stanley Anderson, CEO of Hyundai Automotive South Africa.  “He brings access, commercial insight and the ability to engage credibly with business leaders at senior levels.  We have seen him help open conversations and create opportunities that might otherwise could have taken considerably longer to establish.”

The timing is both strategic and significant for Hyundai.  The brand remains South Africa’s fourth-largest automotive brand, recording 18,339 new vehicle sales in the first half of 2026, equivalent to a 5.8% market share.  It ended 2025 with on a high, selling 36,409 vehicles with a 19% year-on-year growth.

“Influence is only valuable if you can turn it into action,” said Smit.  “In rugby, leadership was never about being the loudest person in the room.  It was about building trust, creating team synergy and getting people to believe in what the team was trying to achieve.  I have found those same principles apply in business.”

Now active in the security and cleaning sectors alongside his broader business and boardroom interests, Smit brings a perspective that extends well beyond professional sport.  His contribution to Hyundai is not being measured simply in media exposure but has already helped to strengthen commercial relationships. 

For Hyundai Automotive South Africa, the partnership illustrates a broader shift in how brands can leverage influential individuals.  “It is not simply to generate awareness but to create business influence, build relationships and advancing commercial opportunities,” concluded Anderson.

Ends.