CODE SHOCK: Gloucester confirm Christian Wade has quit to join rugby league

Christian Wade, the former England international and American footballer, will quit the Gallagher Premiership at the end of this season and take his chances in rugby league with Wigan Warriors.

The 33-year-old, who originally left rugby union in 2018 to try his luck in the NFL with Buffalo Bills, returned to the sport in 2022 when he linked up with Racing 92 in France before switching to Gloucester for the 2024/25 season.

Wade, who lit up the Premiership during his early years stint at Wasps, has made appearances across three competitions for George Skivington’s side, scoring tries in the Premiership and in the EPCR Challenge Cup.

Wade joined Gloucester last summer but will leave after one season

His tries in the league lifted him to fourth in the all-time Premiership try-scoring list, four ahead of the fifth-place Danny Care and 12 behind the record holding Chris Ashton. Wade, though, has now decided that his future in sport will be best served by a dramatic switch to rugby league.

A Friday afternoon statement read: “Gloucester Rugby can confirm that wing Christian Wade will depart the club at the end of the season to pursue a fresh challenge in rugby league.

“The former England international and Lions tourist joined the Cherry and Whites from Top 14 side Racing 92 last summer and has made 13 appearances for the club this season, scoring eight tries – including two hat-tricks.

“Wade, who sensationally left rugby union for American football in 2018, will switch sports again when he joins Super League club Wigan Warriors at the conclusion of the 2024/25 Gallagher Premiership season.”

Wade said: “It has been a real honour to play for Gloucester over the past year. I’ve loved playing Gallagher Premiership rugby again.

“I’d like to thank George and the coaches for the opportunity, the boys for making every day enjoyable and the fans for their love and support this season. I’m excited for the challenge, but for now, my focus remains wholly on finishing the season strongly with Gloucester.”

Director of rugby Skivington added: “Christian has been a great addition for us this season. He has scored some fantastic tries and been a key part of what we are doing, especially in attack.

“He is a great character and his positivity and energy are infectious. He has definitely made his mark here. He leaves with the best wishes of everyone at Gloucester as he takes on a new challenge in rugby league.”

READ MORE: ‘Respect’ – Johann van Graan wades into the Johnny Sexton/Finn Russell Lions debate