Bristol Bears legend Luatua extends deal

Bristol Bears back Steven Luatua has signed a new deal to take him into a 10th year with the club.

The 35-year-old has made 160 appearances for the Bears, including 90 as captain, since joining from his hometown club Auckland Blues in 2017.

"Bristol has become home for me and my family, so I'm incredibly grateful and excited to be extending my time here for another season," Luatua told the club website., external

"I've loved being part of this club's journey and I'm keen to contribute both on and off the field. We've got a great group of players and staff here and an exceptional environment, with a lot of potential and ambition for what's ahead."

On the international stage, Luatua has been capped by New Zealand 15 times, and also appeared for Samoa at the 2023 Rugby World Cup.

Bears director of rugby Pat Lam added: "Stevie has been hugely important to everything we've built here at Bristol Bears over the past nine years, so we're delighted he's extending his stay with the club.

"He continues to lead through his actions every single day, whether that's on the field, around the environment or helping develop our younger players. His professionalism, experience and competitive drive remain world class.

"Stevie cares deeply about this club, his team-mates and our supporters, and he desperately wants to do everything he can to achieve the big goal he had coming to Bristol – to win the Prem before he leaves."

Luatua becomes the second Bristol player to agree a new deal this week, after fly-half AJ MacGinty extended his contract earlier on Wednesday.

The Bears, currently sixth in the table, have two games remaining of the Prem season to make the top four and reach the semi-finals. They are at home to Bath this Friday, before a trip to Sale on the final day.