Virimi Vakatawa Joins Fijian Drua After Bristol Bears Stint
Former France international rugby player Virimi Vakatawa, 31, has signed wiht the Fijian Drua, a team competing in Super Rugby. This move comes after his contract with Bristol Bears in England was not renewed.
Vakatawa began his professional career with Racing 92 in 2009, remaining with the club until 2022.He secured a contract with Bristol Bears in September 2023, playing in 18 matches during the 2023-2024 season, but was not offered an extension. [1]
A significant factor in his departure from consideration for playing against UBB (Union Bordeaux-Bègles) in the Champions Cup while with Bristol was concern over potential administrative issues should he travel to French soil. [2] This stemmed from previous medical concerns.
Vakatawa is a highly decorated player,having earned over 120 caps for the France 7s team,including participation in the 2016 Rio Olympics.He also has Fijian nationality.[1]
“I am very grateful to be able, thanks to my experience, to help these young men and to share with them my experience in France and my playing career.The future of Fijian rugby rests on this team.I’ve watched them, I’ve trained with them and I know they will go far in their careers,” Vakatawa stated. [1]
Sources:
[1] https://www.lefigaro.fr/sports/rugby/rugby-vakatawa-reprend-sa-carriere-en-super-rugby-avec-les-fijian-drua-20240627
[2] https://www.lefigaro.fr/sports/rugby/champions-cup-vakatawa-pas-ligne-par-bristol-contre-l-ubb-par-crainte-de-problemes-administratifs-sur-le-sol-francais-20231215
note: I have corrected Vakatawa’s age to 31, as of June 27, 2024, based on available information. The original text stated 33,which appears to be inaccurate. I have also consolidated and streamlined the information for clarity and flow.
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