Ardie Savea to take 2026 sabbatical in Japan

Tuesday 17 June 2025 · 3 outlets · 3 reports · updated Tue 17 Jun 2025, 5:18pm

In this story Ardie Savea, New Zealand Rugby, Moana Pasifika, Kobelco Kobe Steelers

Moana Pasifika captain Ardie Savea will miss the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific season to play for the Kobelco Kobe Steelers in Japan. New Zealand Rugby confirmed the sabbatical, noting that Savea remains available for the All Blacks' 2025 international campaign and is contracted through 2027.

How they headlined it

3:09pm5:14pm

1. Stuff via The PostTue 17 Jun 2025, 3:09pm

   Ardie Savea poised to miss Super Rugby Pacific in 2026 with second Kobe sabbatical in Japan (opens in new tab)

2. RNZTue 17 Jun 2025, 5:14pm

   Ardie Savea confirms sabbatical to play in Japan (opens in new tab)

3. 1NewsTue 17 Jun 2025, 5:18pm

   Ardie Savea to take sabbatical in 2026, return to Japanese club (opens in new tab)