Francois John Mostert is a South African professional rugby union player, born on November 27, 1990, in Welkom, South Africa.
A towering lock who stands at 1.98 meters and weighs 112 kilograms, he is renowned for his immense work rate, physicality, and versatility, often playing as a flanker when required.
His career path is a testament to resilience; he was never a standout schoolboy player, never attended the prestigious Craven Week, and was even put on the transfer list by the Blue Bulls early in his career.
However, under the guidance of coach Johan Ackermann at the Lions, his potential was unlocked, propelling him to the highest levels of the sport.
Siblings
The most significant familial figure in Franco’s life is his older brother, Jean-Pierre (JP) Mostert.
JP, a flanker by trade, was a talented rugby player in his own right, captaining the North West Craven Week team and later representing the Pumas and Falcons.
Franco has described his brother as the leader in their relationship, the one who kept him out of mischief and instilled leadership qualities in him from a young age.
Their bond was tragically tested in July 2017 when JP was involved in a horrific car accident that broke his neck, leaving him paralyzed from the shoulders down.
The accident ended JP’s rugby career and was a devastating blow to the family.
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Career
Mostert’s rugby journey began in Brits, where he attended high school, and he initially harbored ambitions of becoming a professional golfer.
Following his father’s advice, he chose rugby.
After a trial at the University of Pretoria (Tuks), he made his mark in the Varsity Cup, but his time at the Blue Bulls ended when he was put on the transfer list.
This move proved to be a blessing in disguise, as it led him to the Lions and coach Johan Ackermann, who saw his immense potential.
His career nearly ended before it began.
In 2013, shortly after joining the Lions, he was in a serious car accident that broke his hip.
Doctors told him he might never play rugby again, and he was forced to spend six months in traction.
His miraculous recovery and return for the 2014 Super Rugby season showcased his incredible determination.
He went on to become a cornerstone of the Lions’ forward pack, helping them reach the Super Rugby finals in 2016 and 2017.
He made his Springbok debut in June 2016 against Ireland and went on to play a pivotal role in the 2019 Rugby World Cup victory, starting in the final against England.
He later played for Gloucester in England before moving to Japan to play for Honda Heat, all while remaining a vital part of the Springboks setup.
He solidified his legacy by being a key member of the 2023 Rugby World Cup-winning squad.
Accolades
Mostert is a two-time Rugby World Cup champion, having been a member of the victorious Springboks squads in 2019 and 2023.
He was also instrumental in the Springboks’ series win over the British and Irish Lions, where his incredible tackle count (42 across the tests) was a key factor in the victory.
He has accumulated over 80 Test caps for South Africa, a testament to his longevity and value at the highest level.
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