Liam Wright to leave Queensland Reds after eight years

Former Wallabies and Queensland Reds captain Liam Wright is departing the club after eight seasons.

The 27-year-old will leave the Reds after making 86 appearances since his debut in 2018, including 55 as skipper. The breakdown in negotiations over a new contract means his time in Brisbane has come to an end.

He has earned six caps for Australia and captained the Wallabies against Wales in 2024, but a shoulder injury in that match derailed his progress and saw him overlooked for a short-term national contract.

In 2025, Wright managed just 58 minutes across two Super Rugby matches, following a full 15-game campaign in 2024.

Reflecting on his time with the Reds, Wright said: “I’ve been in tears over injury at times, but you pick yourself up to work hard, be resilient and go again.

"It will be hard not coming into Ballymore nearly every day. Beyond the moments on the field, my fondest memories are around the people, the mates I got to do it with.”

He highlighted a personal standout: the Reds’ 21-14 win over the Sharks in Durban in 2019, during which he earned a decisive penalty in the final minute and played in front of family and friends.

The Reds expressed gratitude for Wright’s contribution over his tenure, acknowledging his leadership and resilience both on and off the field.

“Liam is a true rugby man who lives the values of what rugby is,” Kiss said.

“He’s been an exceptional rugby player for the Reds. He’s a brilliant person, and you understand why the locker room looks up to him.

“He’s a leader of men. His persistence and resilience are evident on a daily basis.”