Ardie Savea Takes 2026 Sabbatical to Play in Japan, Remains All Blacks Eligible

Ardie Savea, the All Blacks vice-captain and 2023 World Rugby Player of the Year, has announced he will take a sabbatical from Moana Pasifika for the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific season to rejoin the Kobelco Kobe Steelers in Japan. This marks his second stint with the Japanese club, having played there in 2024, and is enabled by a sabbatical clause in his New Zealand Rugby contract, which runs through the end of 2027. Despite playing in Japan in 2026, Savea will remain eligible for All Blacks selection, including the 2025 international campaign and the 2026 July test series after the Japanese season concludes. Moana Pasifika head coach Fa’alogo Tana Umaga expressed full support for Savea's sabbatical, emphasizing it as part of the modern game and affirming the team's preparation to continue building momentum in his absence. Savea has expressed deep affection for Moana Pasifika and is committed to returning in 2027, while also praising Japan and the Kobe Steelers for the enriching experiences they provide. He plans to support Moana Pasifika from afar during his sabbatical and stay involved behind the scenes.