Ma’a Nonu exit: Special tribute as All Blacks legend’s future left undecided
Former All Black star Ma'a Nonu will exit RC Toulon at the end of the current season
Former All Blacks star Ma’a Nonu will exit RC Toulon at the end of the current season after initially rejoining the Top 14 side in June 2025 as injury cover.
His second stint with the three-time European Champions Cup winners saw him used predominantly as a substitute, but he did get on the score sheet four times in 15 matches.
He also became the oldest player to play in the knockout stages of the Investec Champions Cup when he appeared off the bench to help his side beat the Stormers in the round of 16 in April.
“You will leave @RCTofficiel at the end of the season but you will always remain in the Red & Black Family,” the club said in a statement released online on Monday.
Nonu will be joined at the exit door by teammates Brian Alainu’uese, Daniel Brennan and Giorgi Javakhia, while the coaching trio of Andrea Masi, Gilles Allou and Sergio Parisse are also set to leave the South of France club. The latter of the three will join Italy ahead of the much-anticipated Nations Championship.
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A special farewell
Following Toulon’s final home match of the season, a hard-fought 27-22 victory over European Champions Bordeaux, Alainu’uese and Nonu were honoured with a final Haka.
There has been no confirmation about Nonu’s next move, but a player of his quality – even at his advancing age – would be welcomed at clubs all around the world.
Previously, he’s turned out for the American side San Diego Legion, spent time in Japan, and, of course, cut his teeth on the game in New Zealand.
It’s worth noting that he has yet to play in England, and with Newcastle Red Bulls looking to add quality to their ranks, perhaps Nonu could provide them the stability they need.
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