Fiji-born rugby player and former league star Suliasi Vunivalu has officially joined French Top 14 club La Rochelle. The 28-year-old winger, who transitioned to rugby union from the Melbourne Storm in 2021, quickly made his mark by earning a call-up to the Wallabies shortly after joining the Queensland Reds.
Vunivalu contributed to the Wallabies’ efforts during the 2023 World Cup, appearing in seven Test matches, although he has not been selected since Joe Schmidt took over as the new Australian coach earlier this year.
In a statement expressing his enthusiasm for this new chapter, Vunivalu said, “I’ve really enjoyed coming over to rugby from rugby league. I’ve learnt so much and want to take it further in France. This is a good opportunity because travelling with rugby has been one of my goals from the start. It’s the right time.”
At La Rochelle, Vunivalu will reconnect with his World Cup teammate Will Skelton. La Rochelle boasts a strong pedigree, having claimed consecutive European Rugby Champions Cups in 2022 and 2023. This move marks a significant opportunity for him as he aims to elevate his game in an elite European league.
During his time with the Reds, Vunivalu notched 18 tries in 40 appearances, showcasing his talent as a formidable winger. However, he faced increased competition for a position, particularly with the rise of young talent Tim Ryan.
La Rochelle is home to several other Fijian players, including Levani Botia, Simeli Daunivucu, Tomasi Seru, and Peni Vuetimaiwai, adding depth and a shared cultural connection to his new team.
This move represents not just a personal achievement for Vunivalu but also an exciting opportunity for him to continue growing in a competitive environment while contributing to the rich tradition of rugby at La Rochelle. The combination of his experience and the supportive network of fellow Fijian athletes could lead to a promising future in French rugby.
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