Benetton agree early release of Italy international wing Monty Ioane

Benetton Rugby have confirmed that they will agreed to release Italy wing Monty Ioane from his contract ahead of the 2022/23 season.

The 27-year-old signed a contract extension with the club in December last year until 2024 with an option to extend for another year.

However, now will be heading back to Australia, the country of his birth where he is reported to resume his career.

In a statement released by the club, Ioane said mental issues has forced him to return back to Australia and thanked Benetton for agreeing to release him early from his contract.

Having made his international debut for Italy in 2020, he has gone on to play 14 Tests. The Italian Rugby Federation issued a statement that Ioane will still be considered for international selection in the upcoming season despite his move to part ways with Benetton.

“I thank Benetton Rugby for the enormous opportunity granted to me in these splendid five years,” said Ioane in a statement released by the club.

“In Treviso, I found a family ready to help me mature as a man and to give me support even in the most difficult moments, as well as a club that has allowed me to grow a lot as a player.

“The termination of my contract with Benetton Rugby, despite the extension last December, comes due to mental health issues that have forced me to stop playing rugby in recent months – issues that in this moment of my life lead me to stay in Australia close to my wife and my children.

“Finally, I would like to thank my team-mates and the fans for the warmth shown to me.”