Izaia Perese returns to Queensland Reds

Izaia Perese has returned to Australian rugby after signing with the Queensland Reds and Rugby Australia on a deal running through to the end of 2028.

Izaia Perese Returns To Queensland Reds

Perese will rejoin the Reds at Ballymore, the club where his professional rugby career began. The 29-year-old centre made his Queensland debut as a teenager in 2017 and played 17 Super Rugby matches for the Reds across the 2017 and 2018 seasons.

Perese said returning to Queensland was a major personal and professional decision, especially with his family now back close to home.

"I thought my journey was overseas and that was going to be me for the rest of my career. In Australia, in Queensland, is where I want to be and excited is an understatement," Perese said.??

"It's an exciting time for rugby in Australia as a whole. The Rugby World Cup next year is obviously a goal but what comes first is playing good rugby here at the Reds."

Wallabies Centre Boosts Australian Rugby Depth

Perese returns after spells with Bayonne, NSW Waratahs, Leicester Tigers, the Barbarians and the Wallabies. He has played more than 90 senior matches since leaving the Reds and has won six caps for Australia.

His Wallabies appearances included a strong performance against Portugal at the 2023 Rugby World Cup. With Australia preparing to host the next Rugby World Cup, his return strengthens the national midfield depth chart.

Reds Strengthen Squad Through 2028

Rugby Australia Director of High Performance Peter Horne said the signing reflected the organisation’s focus on keeping leading Australian players in the domestic system.

“We are pleased to welcome Izaia back to Australian Rugby at a pivotal time for the game.??

“He is a powerful athlete who is experienced and motivated to contribute to Queensland and the wider Australian system.??“His signing reflects our focus on strengthening our depth and ensuring our best athletes are playing their rugby here in Australia."??