Brumbies sign Tongan prop Feao Fotuaika for 2025
Feao Fotuaika has played six times for Tonga
©PA
The ACT Brumbies have strengthened their front row with the signing of Feao Fotuaika, a Tongan international prop, for the upcoming 2025 Super Rugby Pacific season.
]The 31-year-old brings extensive experience to the Brumbies, following a successful two-and-a-half-year stint in the French Top 14 with Lyon, where he made 28 appearances.
Fotuaika has also earned six caps for Tonga and is no stranger to Super Rugby Pacific, having previously represented the Queensland Reds for four seasons.
Fotuaika expressed his excitement about joining the Canberra-based club: “I wanted to challenge myself at one of the most successful and respected rugby clubs not just in Australia, but also in World Rugby,” he said.
“Having the chance to be a part of a club with such a strong culture and history was inspiring. I can’t wait to get started.”
Born in Gisborne, New Zealand, Fotuaika moved to Australia at the age of 14 and represented the country at the schoolboy level.
He showcased his talent in the National Rugby Championship with Brisbane City and Queensland Country before joining the Queensland Reds in 2019.
During his time with the Reds, he made 31 appearances and scored two tries. Afterward, Fotuaika moved to France, where he added further depth to his rugby resume.
His family is no stranger to sporting excellence, with his brother Moeaki Fotuaika excelling in the NRL and representing Queensland in State of Origin and Tonga on the international stage.
Fotuaika joins a formidable group of props at the Brumbies, which includes Allan Alaalatoa, James Slipper, and rising talent Harry Vella. His arrival follows the departure of Sefo Kautei to the Highlanders.
Head Coach Stephen Larkham praised the signing, saying: “Feao is a fantastic addition to our side.
"He is an excellent tighthead scrummager, a dynamic ball carrier, and a dominant tackler with great ball-handling skills.
"He brings huge experience from playing Super Rugby Pacific and significant time in French rugby.”
The Brumbies kick off their 2025 Super Rugby Pacific campaign on February 15th in Suva, Fiji, against Fijian Drua. Their first home game will be at GIO Stadium on February 22nd, where they face Western Force.
