Legendary Cardiff, Wales and British and Irish Lions back-row forward Taulupe Faletau has agreed terms on a contract extension with the Welsh capital outfit.
There were fears that the 34-year-old, who will be out of contract at the end of June, may head overseas, but he has signed a new contract and will continue his illustrious career at Cardiff.
Faletau joined Cardiff in 2022 when he returned to Wales following a six-year stint with Bath in the Premiership, after previously representing fellow Welsh region the Dragons from 2009 to 2016.
Battled injury setbacks
Injuries have curtailed his appearances to a mere 23 since making the move to Cardiff, but he impressed when he returned to action in December and was hugely influential in the second half of the season.
“I’m really happy to be staying with Cardiff and continuing to play my rugby here at home. Being part of this group of players has been amazing,” said Faletau.
“There’s a good vibe on and off the pitch, and I really enjoy working with Matt Sherratt. His insights and support have challenged me to grow and improve.
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“Playing at the Arms Park is also truly special and the support we receive is brilliant. I’m grateful for the continued opportunity and I’m looking forward to what is shaping up to be an exciting year ahead.”
Cardiff head coach Sherratt was delighted that Faletau will continue his stint at the United Rugby Championship side.
“We’re all delighted to be able to keep Taulupe at Cardiff and in Wales – and we’re also delighted to secure the services of Javan (Sebastian) and Sam (Wainwright),” he said.
‘One of the greatest players to pull on a Cardiff shirt’
“Taulupe is one of very few players who has real quality in every aspect of the game. He is undoubtedly one of the greatest players to pull on a Cardiff shirt and the red shirt of Wales and we are delighted he is staying with us.”
News of Faletau’s decision to stay on at Cardiff will be good news for fans in Wales after he was reportedly on the verge of leaving Welsh rugby with a host of French clubs said to be interested in his services.
According to a Wales Online report in March, Pro D2 strugglers Nice were one of the clubs vying for his signature, with chairman Jean-Baptiste Aldigé keen to make another splash on the player market after the club signed Fijian centre Waisea Nayacalevu for the 2025/26 season.