In post-apartheid South Africa, newly elected President Nelson Mandela faces the challenge of uniting a country still deeply divided by racial tensions. Recognizing the unifying power of sports, he sets his sights on the national rugby team, the Springboks, which is largely a symbol of white South African privilege. Mandela meets with team captain, François Pienaar, to discuss how they can inspire a nation to come together behind the team as they prepare for the 1995 Rugby World Cup. Despite skepticism from both Mandela’s advisers and Pienaar’s teammates, the two leaders embark on a journey to foster unity and national pride through their unlikely partnership.

As the team begins its training, Mandela and Pienaar face various hurdles that test their leadership and resolve. Mandela uses his personal charisma and conviction to encourage every South African to support the team, while Pienaar and his teammates gradually embrace their role as ambassadors of reconciliation. Through dedication and clever strategy both on and off the field, they strive to transform the Springboks from underdogs into a source of inspiration for an entire nation. Tensions simmer and stakes rise as the championship approaches, revealing the depths of courage and hope needed to bridge divides and heal a fractured society.