In a stunning move that has sent shockwaves through the rugby world, New Zealand centre Rieko Ioane has confirmed he will join Irish powerhouse Leinster for the 2025-26 season. The 28-year-old, who has been a mainstay for the Auckland-based Blues since making his debut in 2016, will take a sabbatical from his Super Rugby commitments to experience rugby in Europe.
Ioane's decision follows in the footsteps of fellow All Black Jordie Barrett, who is currently making waves in Dublin after joining Leinster for the ongoing season. The announcement came via Ioane's Instagram, where he expressed excitement about the opportunity, stating, "What’s up fam just wanted to announce, I’ll be heading to Leinster at the end of the year on a sabbatical break. It’s an exciting opportunity to play in Ireland for an iconic team, grow my game and experience something different with my family. Will be back refreshed and ready to rock second half of 2026. Until then locked in with my blues brothers."
This move marks a significant moment in Ioane's career, as he has been a key player for the All Blacks, scoring 37 tries in 81 international appearances. His versatility as an outside back, able to play both centre and wing, adds depth to Leinster's already formidable squad.
Leinster head coach Leo Cullen expressed his enthusiasm for the signing, emphasizing Ioane's world-class experience and the value he will bring to the team. "Rieko is a world-class, 81-cap All Black who has been operating at the very top level of the international game and Super Rugby for many seasons," Cullen said. "He is an exciting, versatile outside back who will bring pace, rugby skills and experience to Leinster. That experience will add massive value to the group here and our younger players especially will learn so much from seeing how Rieko prepares, trains and plays."
Ioane's move to Leinster comes amid a backdrop of increasing financial pressures on Irish rugby, as the Irish Rugby Football Union (IRFU) recently announced that the four provinces will need to contribute 40% to the national player contracts starting in August 2026, up from the previous 30%. Leinster, having the highest number of nationally contracted players, is expected to feel the impact of this change the most.
Despite the excitement surrounding his transfer, Ioane's history with Irish rugby is not without controversy. He has been embroiled in a high-profile feud with Leinster and Ireland legend Johnny Sexton. The rivalry ignited after the All Blacks edged Ireland out in the 2023 Rugby World Cup quarter-finals. In his autobiography, Sexton recounted a tense exchange post-match, where Ioane allegedly told him, "Don’t miss your flight home tomorrow. Enjoy retirement, you c***." This comment has since become a notable point of contention between the two players.
Following New Zealand's victory over Ireland in November, Ioane further fueled the rivalry by posting a cheeky message on Instagram, stating, "Put that in the book," accompanied by a joker emoji. This incident has made Ioane a polarizing figure among Irish fans, as many still remember the heated moments from their encounters on the pitch.
Ioane's arrival at Leinster is particularly significant as the club aims for a domestic and European double. The Dublin-based side recently showcased their dominance by thrashing both Harlequins and Glasgow Warriors in the Champions Cup knockout stages, winning 62-0 and 52-0, respectively. Barrett's impressive performance since joining the team has raised expectations for Ioane to replicate that success.
While Ioane has been a standout player for the Blues, his decision to take a sabbatical and play in Ireland instead of Japan—where lucrative offers awaited him to join his brother Akira—signals a desire for new challenges and experiences. The All Blacks have increasingly incorporated sabbatical clauses into their contracts, allowing players to explore opportunities overseas while remaining committed to the national team.
As Ioane prepares for his stint with Leinster, he will be looking to leave a lasting impact on the team and its supporters. His return to New Zealand in 2027 is already anticipated, but for now, his focus is on making the most of this exciting opportunity in Ireland.
With Ioane joining the ranks of Leinster, the team is poised to maintain its competitive edge in both the United Rugby Championship and the Champions Cup. As the season progresses, all eyes will be on how this dynamic player integrates into the squad and contributes to Leinster's ambitions.
As the rugby world eagerly awaits the 2025-26 season, fans can expect plenty of thrilling moments as Ioane dons the famous blue jersey and aims to bring his explosive style of play to the Irish province. The stage is set for a new chapter in his career, one that promises to be as exciting as it is unpredictable.
