Learn about the rugby player Franco Mostert through his detailed biography

Learn about the rugby player Franco Mostert through his detailed biography

Kenneth Mwenda
February 21, 2024 at 11:26 AM

Franco Mostert, born in Welkom, South Africa, is a prominent figure in rugby. Standing at an impressive height, Mostert is renowned for his formidable presence on the field. With a career spanning various leagues and teams, he has garnered accolades for his exceptional work rate and durability, earning him the nickname “Universal Soldier” among isiXhosa commentators.

Mostert during a rugby match
Mostert chose rugby following the guidance of his father, Francois, who had played for Free State. Photos: Craig Mercer/Franco Arland (modified by author)
Source: Getty Images

Table of Сontents:

Mostert’s journey from aspiring professional golfer to standout rugby player reflects his resilience and determination. These details have been sourced from reliable sources, including official rugby records and credible news outlets.

Profile summary

Name

Franco Mostert

Date of birth

27 November 1990

Height

1.98 metres (6 feet 6 inches)

Weight

112 kilograms (246.92 pounds)

Birthplace

Welkom, South Africa

Education

Brits High School

Rugby position

Lock

Nickname

“Universal Soldier”

Family

Married to Juan-Ri Mostert

Children

Daughters Joia-Belle and Jemelem Djwini, and son Juan-Henke Benjamin

Sibling

Brother named Jean-Pierre

Career highlights

Represented Springboks, won the 2019 and 2023 Rugby World Cups

Current team

Honda Heat, in Japan

Salary and net worth

Estimated salary of $1 million annually, net worth between $3 and $5 million as of 2024

Social media

Instagram

How old is Franco Mostert?

Franco Mostert (age 33 as of February 2024) was born on 27 November 1990 in Welkom, South Africa. He attended Brits High School for his education. Mostert initially aspired to pursue a career as a professional golfer but ultimately chose rugby, following the guidance of his father, Francois, who had played for Free State.

How tall is Franco Mostert?

The South African rugby player towers at an impressive height of 1.98 metres (6 feet 6 inches). He also carries a weight of 112 kilograms (246.92 pounds or 17 stone 8.92 pounds). His stature places him among the tallest players in the Springboks’ ranks.

Franco Mostert’s rugby career

Franco Mostert's facts
Franco Mostert during the South Africa Springboks training session held at The Lensbury on November 22, 2022, in Teddington, England. Photo: David Rogers. (modified by author)
Source: Original

Initially, Mostert began his rugby journey by playing age-grade rugby for the Blue Bulls during his youth and later represented Tuks at the University of Pretoria. He participated in the 2010, 2011, and 2012 Varsity Cup competitions as part of the UP Tuks team. In 2012, he transitioned to senior rugby, making his debut for the Blue Bulls before signing with the Lions in Johannesburg.

During the 2013 season, Mostert joined the Golden Lions; however, his promising start was hindered by a serious car accident shortly after his arrival, forcing him to be sidelined until at least the end of 2013. Following a full recovery, he returned to the field and was selected for the Lions squad for the 2014 Super Rugby season. He marked his debut with a notable performance in a narrow 21–20 victory over the Cheetahs in Bloemfontein.

When did he debut for the Springboks?

His outstanding performances caught the attention of selectors, leading to his inclusion in the Springboks squad in 2016. Franco Mostert earned his first international cap for South Africa during a thrilling 32-26 victory against Ireland at Ellis Park in June 2016.

During his tenure with the Lions, Mostert briefly ventured to Japan, representing the Ricoh Black Rams. Subsequently, Johan Ackermann, former Lions boss and then Gloucester head coach, secured Mostert’s signature for Gloucester ahead of the 2018–19 English Premiership season.

His transition to the Premiership in 2018/19 saw him make a significant impact upon arrival, quickly becoming a beloved figure among the Cherry and Whites supporters. In his debut season, he showcased his prowess in 16 appearances and continued to impress, accumulating 25 appearances.

Franco Mostert’s first World Cup

Franco Mostert during the Rugby World Cup in France, 2023
Franco Mostert wins the line out during the Rugby World Cup France 2023 match between England and South Africa at Stade de France on October 21, 2023. Photo: Henry Browne
Source: Getty Images

Internationally, Mostert solidified his position as a key member of the Springbok squad, earning selection in Rassie Erasmus’ lineup that ultimately clinched the 2019 Rugby World Cup. South Africa’s triumphant campaign culminated in a victory over England in the final. Throughout the tournament held in Japan, Mostert showcased his prowess with 25 carries and 45 tackles across 7 games.

In July 2020, he embarked on a new chapter in his career by joining Honda Heat in Japan, which is still his current team (as of February 2024). He was also part of the group that won the 2023 World Cup in France.

Who is Mostert’s brother?

Mostert’s elder brother, Jean-Pierre, formerly showcased his talent as a flanker for both the Pumas and Falcons. Tragically, his promising career came to an abrupt halt in July 2017 following a devastating car accident near Johannesburg. Jean-Pierre suffered a broken neck and was left disabled.

Is Franco Mostert married?

Franco, his wife, Juan-Ri, and kids
Franco and Juan-Ri have been partners since their teenage years, dating back to 2005. Photos: @franco_mostert (modified by author)
Source: Instagram

The renowned rugby player is married to Juan-Ri Mostert. Franco and his wife have been partners since their teenage years, dating back to 2005. After nine years of courtship, Franco proposed to her in November 2014, and their wedding ceremony was held on 11 December 2015.

Franco Mostert's children

Franco and his wife have three kids. Their eldest, Joia-Belle, was born on 29 March 2017, marking the beginning of their journey into parenthood. On 7 May 2020, their second daughter, Jemelem Djwini, brought further joy into their lives, while their youngest son, Juan-Henke Benjamin, was born on 22 December 2021.

In terms of her career, Juan-Ri Mostert wears multiple hats as a blogger, focusing primarily on women’s empowerment and motherhood, and as a professional makeup artist. Hailing from Brits, North West, South Africa, she was born on 14 December 1991.

Franco Mostert’s salary

Franco Mostert poses for a portrait during the South Africa Rugby World Cup 2023 Squad photocall on September 02, 2023, in Toulon, France
Franco Mostert poses for a portrait during the South Africa Rugby World Cup 2023 Squad photocall on September 02, 2023, in Toulon, France. Photo: Alex Livesey
Source: Getty Images

Mostert is said to earn $1 million annually. It is worth mentioning that a rugby player’s salary can fluctuate significantly based on factors such as the league they compete in, their contract specifics, and their on-field performance. His net worth, according to Suprise Sports, is estimated to range between $3 million and $5 million as of 2023, indicating his success in the rugby realm.

Final word

Franco Mostert’s remarkable career trajectory from humble beginnings to international acclaim underscores his unwavering dedication to the sport of rugby. His towering stature, impressive skillset, and enduring impact on the field solidify his status as a legendary figure in the world of rugby.

READ ALSO: Dive into the personal life story of Cobus Reinach, the scrumhalf

Sports Brief published an article about Cobus Reinach, the Springboks’ scrumhalf. Born in Bloemfontein, South Africa, Reinach was not just any aspiring athlete; he is the son of the late Jaco Reinach, a former Springbok winger and a celebrated sprinter.

This lineage bestowed upon Cobus Reinach not only a storied surname but also an insane speed that would eventually define his career.

Authors
Kenneth Mwenda photo
Kenneth Mwenda
Kenneth Mwenda is a business and sports writer with over five years of experience. At Sportsbrief, he contributes to writing biographies and listicles.