"Mandela helped to change attitudes, soften hearts and convince minds" in South Africa © Getty Images

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Nelson Mandela has been inducted posthumously into the World Rugby Hall of Fame.

The image of Mr Mandela, then South Africa's president, dressed in a Springboks team shirt handing over the 1995 Rugby World Cup trophy to Francois Pienaar is perhaps the most enduring image of the sport's showpiece event.  The symbolism of the moment appeared to reflect a unity within the rainbow nation - replacing the Apartheid regime - especially as rugby was seen as the one of the last bastions of South Africa's white population.

World Rugby chairman Bernard Lapasset presented the Hall of Fame cap to Pienaar and South Africa's deputy sport and recreation minister, Gert C Oosthuizen, at a ceremony in Newcastle ahead of the Springboks' World Cup pool B game against Scotland.

"The World Rugby Hall of Fame recognises those who have made an indelible mark on our sport through feats on the field of play, displays of great character or through their tireless and inspirational work in driving forward our great game," Lapasset said.

"Mandela certainly fits in that category. He was instrumental in turning Rugby World Cup 1995 into a momentous occasion that united the South African nation through the power of sport.

"By supporting the Springboks so passionately and publicly on their way to victory, Mandela helped to change attitudes, soften hearts and convince minds of the right course of history for his country to take and, in the process, became a wonderful example to us all.

"Now, 20 years on from that historic tournament, we are delighted to induct the former president into the World Rugby Hall of Fame. It is a fitting tribute to a man who did so much for his country and our sport."

Mr Mandela, who died in 2013, received a glowing tribute from South African Rugby Union president and World Rugby vice-chairman Oregan Hoskins.

"Madiba was a great man of vision, determination and integrity who performed a miracle that amazed the world as much as it amazed his fellow countrymen," Hoskins said. "His name will rank among the greatest humanitarians and this induction reflects rugby's ever-lasting friendship and appreciation for a great man."