Welwitschias gear up for qualifiers

Welwitschias gear up for qualifiers

Hilma Nalupe

The Novel Motor Company yesterday hosted the Namibia national rugby team, the Welwitschias, at their showroom in Windhoek, where the players had the chance to test drive the new Ford Turneo bus and engage with fans in a lively meet-and-greet session.

As an official sponsor of the Namibia Rugby Union, Novel Motor Company said the partnership goes beyond just brand support; it’s about being part of the community. “As a proud sponsor of the Namibia Rugby Union, community engagement is at the very core of our values, and as such, we have made sure to sponsor the Namibia Rugby Union to ensure that,” said Maria Timoteus, Marketing Coordinator at Novel Motor Company.

The session offered fans a chance to meet their rugby heroes up close before the team departs for Dubai, where the Rugby World Cup qualifiers will take place from 8 – 18 November 2025.

Speaking about the team’s preparations, Namibian player Helarius Kisting, who currently plays for CS Dinamo Bucharest in Romania, said the players are motivated and confident heading into the competition. “Representing the country is always exciting, and I truly believe in this team and that we have what it takes to win,” he said.

Fellow player André van der Berg shared that, despite facing a few injury challenges, the squad’s morale remains high as they prepare to compete. “There are a few injuries in the team that we’re trying to navigate, but the excitement is there and we’ll take every game as it comes and prepare for each one as if it’s a final,” he said.

The event not only showcased Ford’s ongoing commitment to Namibian sport but also served as a morale booster for the national team as they set their sights on securing a spot in the 2027 Rugby World Cup. 

-hilmanalupe@gmail.com