James O’ Connor to leave Australia again to ‘pursue overseas opportunities’
Former Wallabies utility back James O’Connor has confirmed that he is leaving the Reds after a five-year stint to “pursue overseas opportunities.”
The 34-year-old, who won 64 Test caps for Australia and made 68 appearances for the Reds during two stints with the Super Rugby club, is yet to announce which club he is joining abroad.
Despite spending most of the 2024 Super Rugby Pacific campaign on the sidelines with a hamstring injury, the Reds still made him an offer to stay but it was not accepted.
O’Connor‘s last appearance for the Reds was in a narrow defeat against Wales at Suncorp Stadium in July. He initially played for the Reds in 2015 before joining Sale Sharks but returned to the Brisbane-based outfit in 2019.
Led Reds to Super Rugby AU success in 2021
One of O’Connor’s highlights during the past five years at the Reds was when he captained them to the Super Rugby AU title in 2021. It was a momentous occasion as he scored the match-winning try in the final against the Brumbies in Brisbane.
“These last five years have been the highlight of my rugby career,” O’Connor said. “I’m so proud of where we have gotten to as a group. Although there’s been highs and lows the consistency, and just the love at this club, has been so incredible to be a part of.
“I’m departing Queensland a better player, leader and man, and I’m so grateful to have been able to play for this team, my home.
“The club couldn’t be in better hands. Les and the other coaches are easily the most cohesive group I have ever worked with and I’m thankful I got to be a part of it this year. I have no doubt that there’s a lot of success to come and I’ll be watching from abroad with deep gratitude. Thanks for everything Queensland. It’s been a dream come true.”
Although he is disappointed to see O’Connor go, Reds head coach Les Kiss paid tribute to the player and highlighted the importance of the role he has played during his time at the club.
“James O’Connor has been a selfless leader in my time in Queensland, and personally I’m so pleased and grateful I had the chance to coach him this season, as are all of the coaching team,” Kiss said.
‘Dedicated himself to improving the team’
“Whilst James encountered a challenging season that saw injury limit his ability to contribute on the field, he dedicated himself to improving the team in any way he could.
“His immense experience and willingness to share his experiences has played a pivotal role in the development of the Reds, most notably with our young flyhalves Tom Lynagh and Harry McLaughlin-Phillips.
“They’ll undoubtedly reflect positively on the time they were able to spend with him, fine-tuning their game and understanding the mental side of the playmakers’ role, and for that we’re indebted to James.
“We did make him an offer to stay and continue at the Reds and will be sad to see him go, but we respect the decision he and Bridget have made and wish them all the very best.
I have no doubt James will return to give back to the Queensland Rugby community in coming years in some capacity, and that’s something we can all look forward to.”
READ MORE: Super Rugby Pacific unveils ‘lucky loser’ twist in new format for 2025