The handover took place at the Bidvest McCarthy dealership, where the pair were named Nissan’s first sports ambassadors for 2026. Their appointment follows the announcement of three industry ambassadors at Nissan’s head office in Irene, Pretoria.

Ramy Mohareb, head of communications for Nissan Africa, says: “The Navara has proved itself in some of the toughest environments imaginable, while being versatile in its application, from commercial to adventure. Whatever the specification, the Nissan Navara is a passport to dare, which why it’s so wonderful to have these great sports stars affirming precisely that by becoming brand ambassadors.”

Nissan Africa Managing Director Mohammed Abdel Samad, who was in Durban for the handover, was just as enthusiastic. “I am a late convert to rugby, only now learning to appreciate this game and of course South Africa’s legendary performance on and off the field, but I must say that getting to meet Aphelele and Jordan in person, these athletes truly embody the capability and potential of the Navara PRO-4X.”

Aphelele Fassi capped 15 times for the Springboks, was part of last year’s Rugby Championship-winning squad. He has been with the Sharks since 2018 and is regarded as one of the most exciting backs in the national set-up.

Jordan Hendrikse, originally from Qonce in the Eastern Cape, plays flyhalf and joined the Springbok squad in 2024. After starting his professional career with the Lions, he returned to Durban to play alongside his brother Jaden at the Sharks. In October 2024, the two became the 36th pair of brothers to represent South Africa.

There was no question that that the handover had to be held in Durban at one of Nissan’s dealerships, says Nissan South Africa sales director Reichardt Groenewald. “With the choice of venue when you buy a Nissan Navara, you’re not only getting a fantastic vehicle, but also a relationship with the dealer network, providing owners confidence wherever in the country.”

The Nissan Navara Pro4X is a 4x4 double-cab bakkie powered by a 2.5-litre twin-turbo diesel engine producing 140kW and 450Nm, paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission.

The Navara has already demonstrated its endurance, completing the 8 000km “Daring Africa” journey from South Africa to Egypt. Other models, such as the Stealth and Warrior by Premcar, have also been tested in demanding South African terrain.

The Navara was named Car of the Year in its segment in 2022 and won Bakkie of the Year in the inaugural competition of the same name.