Ardie Savea Takes 2026 Super Rugby Sabbatical

Ardie Savea, the All Blacks vice-captain and 2023 World Rugby Player of the Year, will take a sabbatical from Super Rugby in 2026 to play for Japan's Kobe Steelers during the 2025-2026 Japan Rugby League One season, under a clause in his New Zealand Rugby contract that runs through 2027. Savea previously played for Kobe in 2024 and was a standout for Moana Pasifika in 2025, helping them nearly reach the playoffs and earning Super Rugby Player of the Year honors. Despite his temporary move to Japan, Savea remains eligible for All Blacks selection for end-of-year internationals and major test matches. Both Savea and Moana Pasifika coach Tana Umaga have highlighted the positive impact of his time with the club and look forward to his return in 2027. The sabbatical system allows top New Zealand players to pursue overseas opportunities while staying available for national duties. Savea expressed gratitude for his experiences with both Kobe and Moana Pasifika, calling the 2025 season his happiest yet.