Len Ikitau signs short-term deal with Exeter for 2025-26 season

Australia international centre Len Ikitau will join the Exeter Chiefs for the 2025-26 Premiership Rugby season on a nine-month contract, after which he will return to the ACT Brumbies as part of a Rugby Australia contract extension through to the 2027 World Cup. Ikitau, a 39-cap Wallaby known for his defensive strength and attacking creativity, views the move as an opportunity to experience a different rugby environment and further his development. Exeter's director of rugby, Rob Baxter, praised Ikitau's world-class ability and leadership potential, expressing confidence that he will significantly strengthen the team's midfield and overall squad. The signing is seen as a major boost for the struggling Chiefs and follows similar short-term sabbaticals given to southern hemisphere stars, with Ikitau joining other recent Australian additions to the Exeter squad. Ikitau cited his eagerness to try a new culture and style of rugby as motivating factors for his move, while also emphasizing his commitment to contributing to Exeter's ambitions during his stay abroad.