The Wales wing has proven an instant hit since returning to the Gallagher Prem from the NFLRees-Zammit has signed a long-term deal at Bristol(Image: Michael Steele/Getty Images)

Wales wing Louis Rees-Zammit has signed a long-term deal with Bristol Bears.

The 24-year-old, who is also comfortable at full-back, joined the Gallagher Prem club at the start of this season after returning from the NFL, having spent the previous 18 months trying to make it in American football with the Kansas City Chiefs and Jacksonville Jaguars. Initially, Rees-Zammit signed a one-year deal with the Bears.

The 35-cap international was a target for rebel league R360, which had been due to begin in 2026.

However, the Mike Tindall-driven breakaway league has been delayed – leaving Rees-Zammit to look at other options.

And given his fine return to rugby at Bristol, having made an immediate impact – scoring six tries in eight appearances – he has now committed to more seasons with the Ashton Gate club.

“I’m incredibly happy to have committed my future to Bristol Bears. This is the perfect club for me and I’m excited to see what we can achieve here,” said Rees-Zammit.

“The environment here allows me to express myself and play the game the way I love, and that brings out the best in me.

“Running out at Ashton Gate in front of huge crowds and feeling that energy from the fans is special, and it makes me excited about what we can build together in the years ahead.”

As well as making his return to the club game last year, Rees-Zammit has also returned to the international fold – quickly becoming an important part of new head coach Steve Tandy’s team.

Having won his first Wales cap in two years off the bench against Argentina at the start of November, he followed that up with starts against Japan and New Zealand – scoring against both.

Bristol will be delighted to keep hold of Rees-Zammit – with the Welshman unlikely to be short of potential suitors.

“Louis is a world-class talent and someone who embodies the way we want to play at Bristol Bears,” said Bristol director of rugby, Pat Lam.

“Since coming back from the NFL, he’s shown incredible professionalism and hunger to keep improving. His speed, power and skill set are obvious, but what really stands out is his willingness to learn, adapt and deliver on the biggest stage.

“What’s exciting is that he’s only just scratching the surface of his ability – at just 24-years-old, there’s so much more to come from him.

“If he keeps progressing on this journey, he has everything it takes to become one of the very best players in the world, and we’re delighted he’s committed his long-term future to the club.”

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