Israel Folau has signed a new four-year contract with the Wallabies and Waratahs, ending speculation over his short-term future.
Folau was linked with a possible return to rugby league, as well as potential moves to the Reds, Japan or Europe.
However, the new agreement with Rugby Australia will take him through until the end of 2022 – when he will be 34 – and ensure that the sought-after code-hopper spends at least 10 seasons in the 15-man game.
Folau’s series of anti-gay social media posts last year led to a firestorm, and placed his career in Australian rugby in doubt. The divisive superstar said recently he hoped rugby fans would be able to move on in light of his intention to recommit to the code.
‘I’m really grateful to Rugby Australia and the Waratahs for all they have done for me,’ Folau said in a statement.
‘The World Cup is a big target of mine this year and I believe this Wallabies group can go a long way if we keep on improving.
‘I’ve also been very fortunate to win a title with the Waratahs in 2014, and looking at the squad right now with some of the young players we’ve got coming through, the future is very bright and I want to be a part of that.’
Having switched to union from league in 2013, Folau already has the fourth-most Test tries in Wallabies history.
Photo: Jono Searle/Getty Images
