Waratahs release Kurtley Beale with immediate effect

New South Wales Waratahs have confirmed that Australia international Kurtley Beale has been released from the club with immediate effect.

Beale had earlier announced that he will be joining French club Racing 92 next season but with the ongoing season disrupted by the pandemic coronavirus, the 31-year-old had requested for a release of contract with the Waratahs as reported by Sydney Morning Herald.

The 6ft utility back's departure comes 10 days before the start of the Super Rugby AU competition.

"I've spent most of my career in my home state representing the Waratahs, it's been an honour," Beale said.

"I'm thankful for the many great people I've met over the journey and will cherish the memories I've made over the last eleven seasons.

"It's a bittersweet moment to be leaving a place you've called home for such a long time, but this is an exciting opportunity to play overseas and the time is right to begin the next chapter in my career.

"I wish the boys all the best for the domestic season, it's an exciting time for this group with plenty of guys who will carry on the traditions of the Waratahs for years to come."

Beale had three separate stints with Waratahs since his professional rugby debut in 2007 and had represented Wasps and Rebels in the past. He has also played 92 Tests for Australia between 2009 and 2019 and had represented them in 2011, 2015 and 2019 World Cups.