As the curtain falls on the current season, Ma'a Nonu, the celebrated All Blacks veteran, is set to depart from RC Toulon. This move marks the end of his second tenure with the club, which began in June 2025, when he returned to the Top 14 side as injury cover. During this period, although primarily playing as a substitute, Nonu made significant contributions, scoring four times in 15 matches. His prowess was particularly noted when he became the oldest player to participate in the knockout stages of the Investec Champions Cup, coming off the bench to aid his team in a crucial round of 16 victory against the Stormers in April.
The club warmly acknowledged Nonu's contributions and impending departure, stating,
"You will leave @RCTofficiel at the end of the season but you will always remain in the Red & Black Family."
Alongside Nonu, teammates Brian Alainu’uese, Daniel Brennan, and Giorgi Javakhia are also set to leave, as well as the coaching staff Andrea Masi, Gilles Allou, and Sergio Parisse, the latter of whom will take up duties with Italy in anticipation of the Nations Championship.
In a poignant tribute to their service, both Alainu’uese and Nonu were honoured with a Haka after Toulon's final home game of the season, a tightly contested 27-22 victory over Bordeaux. This ceremonial farewell was a testament to their impact both on and off the field.
As for Nonu's next steps, the rugby world remains in suspense. With no official word on his future, speculation abounds. His illustrious career has seen him play in the United States with the San Diego Legion, in Japan, and of course, his formative years in New Zealand. Notably, Nonu has not yet played in England, where the Newcastle Red Bulls are reportedly keen to bolster their squad with his experience and leadership.
As the chapter at RC Toulon closes, the rugby community watches eagerly to see where this venerable player will next lend his talents. His legacy, characterized by formidable skill and sportsmanship, promises to influence and inspire future generations, wherever he chooses to play next.
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As the curtain falls on the current season, Ma'a Nonu, the celebrated All Blacks veteran, is set to depart from RC Toulon. This move marks the end of his second tenure with the club, which began in June 2025, when he returned to the Top 14 side as injury cover. During this period, although primarily playing as a substitute, Nonu made significant contributions, scoring four times in 15 matches. His prowess was particularly noted when he became the oldest player to participate in the knockout stages of the Investec Champions Cup, coming off the bench to aid his team in a crucial round of 16 victory against the Stormers in April.
The club warmly acknowledged Nonu's contributions and impending departure, stating,
"You will leave @RCTofficiel at the end of the season but you will always remain in the Red & Black Family."
Alongside Nonu, teammates Brian Alainu’uese, Daniel Brennan, and Giorgi Javakhia are also set to leave, as well as the coaching staff Andrea Masi, Gilles Allou, and Sergio Parisse, the latter of whom will take up duties with Italy in anticipation of the Nations Championship.In a poignant tribute to their service, both Alainu’uese and Nonu were honoured with a Haka after Toulon's final home game of the season, a tightly contested 27-22 victory over Bordeaux. This ceremonial farewell was a testament to their impact both on and off the field.
As for Nonu's next steps, the rugby world remains in suspense. With no official word on his future, speculation abounds. His illustrious career has seen him play in the United States with the San Diego Legion, in Japan, and of course, his formative years in New Zealand. Notably, Nonu has not yet played in England, where the Newcastle Red Bulls are reportedly keen to bolster their squad with his experience and leadership.
As the chapter at RC Toulon closes, the rugby community watches eagerly to see where this venerable player will next lend his talents. His legacy, characterized by formidable skill and sportsmanship, promises to influence and inspire future generations, wherever he chooses to play next.