Rugby / Bristol Bears

Vakatawa: ‘I knew that Bristol was the right place for me’

By Martin Booth  Thursday Sep 28, 2023

Bristol Bears have made one of the most sensational signings in world rugby by bringing Virimi Vakatawa to Ashton Gate.

The Fijian-born France international was banned from playing rugby in September 2022 due to a heart condition.

But now Bears say that he has been granted clearance to return to the professional game “following an independent review by an expert panel of leading sports cardiologists”.

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Vakatawa has made 31 appearances for France and was nominated for European Player of the Year in 2020 when he played for Racing 92, with who he scored 49 tries in 146 appearances.

Vakatawa played for the Barbarians while Bears director of rugby Pat Lam was coach and this link-up appears to have sealed the deal to bring the 31-year-old to Bristol.

Vakatawa said: “I’m excited to be joining Bristol Bears and to be continuing my rugby career at the highest level.

“After working with Pat during my time with the Barbarians, I knew that this was the right place for me and I can’t wait to play in front of the Bristol fans.

“The Premiership has always been an exciting competition, so I’m looking forward to experiencing it this season, and representing the Bears in the Champions Cup.”

 

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Lam added: “I am really pleased to be able to bring a player of Virimi’s class and quality to Bristol and the Gallagher Premiership as it’s exciting for our team, our supporters and our competition.

“I had the privilege of getting to know V better on and off the field recently and it was very clear to me that he would add real value to the Bears and would bring more depth and experience to our backline.

“Virimi is desperate to get back to playing at the highest level.

“For the Bears to be able to bring in a player of his quality is a huge statement for the Premiership and we’re delighted that he has chosen to continue his rugby journey with us.”

Main photo: Fever Pitch

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