Johannesburg – Former Springbok captain and Rugby World Cup champion John Smit is embarking on a new journey as a brand ambassador for RoadCover.

As one of South Africa’s most celebrated sports figures, Smit will partner with RoadCover to promote awareness about road accidents and the Road Accident Fund (RAF).

This collaboration offers Smit an opportunity to utilize the platform he has built through his athletic career to tackle a serious issue that affects millions across South Africa.

An avid cyclist, he understands the crucial importance of safer roads for everyone.

“Rugby has taken me on an incredible journey, providing a platform that I believe should extend beyond sports,” Smit said on Thursday, 29 October 2026.

“Our roads connect us; they allow us to reach our workplaces, schools, families, training sessions, and make it back home.

“If I can use my voice to advocate for safer roads and help people understand their rights in these situations, I see that as a valuable effort.”

A different kind of team

This partnership is part of a broader initiative by RoadCover to work alongside respected South Africans who can raise awareness about road safety and public education.

RoadCover CEO Amanda Rogaly stressed that they are not looking to create a traditional lineup of celebrity ambassadors.

“We’re not in search of well-known personalities simply to endorse a product,” Rogaly stated.

“We seek individuals who have taken remarkable journeys and understand that influence comes with a responsibility.

“John embodies this. His path has led him from rugby fields to leading his nation, lifting a World Cup trophy, and building a life beyond sports.

“It’s fitting that RoadCover marks a new chapter in that journey, enabling him to use his experiences to help others.”

Understanding your rights after an accident

A key aspect of Smit’s role will be to improve public understanding of the Road Accident Fund and the entitlements available to those injured in road accidents.

For many South Africans, their first encounter with the RAF happens during difficult times, following a serious injury or the death of a loved one.

Figuring out the next steps, determining if a claim is valid, and understanding how the RAF process works can be overwhelming.

RoadCover takes care of the entire RAF claims process for its members, with fees starting at R49 per family monthly or R29 for individuals.

No charges are deducted from successful settlements, ensuring that claimants receive their full RAF payout.

Rogaly emphasized that awareness should begin long before accidents happen.

“There is a significant gap in knowledge in South Africa regarding what to do after a road accident,” Rogaly noted.

“People often remain unaware of their rights until they find themselves in an urgent situation where they need them.

“We aim to shift that perspective.

“Awareness is part of protection, and by educating more people before any incident occurs, we can enhance outcomes.”

A responsibility that begins before the accident

While RoadCover’s main role is to handle RAF claims for its members, the organization believes its responsibility extends beyond providing support after an accident.

RoadCover is actively investing in public education, road safety initiatives, and preventive measures aimed at improving safety on South African roads.

The philosophy is simple: while RoadCover’s involvement typically begins after an accident, its obligation stretches long before that.

For Smit, whose career has revolved around leadership and teamwork, this principle resonates profoundly.

“Road safety is not solely someone else’s issue,” Smit stated.

“We all make use of the roads in one way or another.

“If we can motivate more South Africans to reconsider their approach to road safety and understand their rights, we can make a significant impact.”