James Thompson will join Leicester Tigers ahead of the 25/26 season.
The versatile forward, capable of playing in the second row and back row, joins from National Provincial Championship club Counties Manukau in New Zealand.
Thompson represented New Zealand Under-20s in 2019 after impressing for Waikato. He was a member of the Chiefs squad for the Super Rugby squad in 2020 and while also featuring for Waikato before, in 2024, joining fellow Super Rugby side the Blues.
Speaking about joining Leicester Tigers, Thompson said: ”Leicester Tigers is a club with a proud history and great supporters. I am looking forward to immersing myself within the culture and to also learn from and contribute alongside some top players.”
“I've enjoyed my time in New Zealand, but this feels like the right moment to test myself in a new environment. Northern Hemisphere rugby is a different brand to the style played in New Zealand, and so this is a great opportunity to grow and develop as a player.
“It's certainly an exciting prospect to be a part of a great club and one that my partner and I are excited about.”
General Manager Richard Wilks added: “James is a promising player, who will join us next season having built up an impressive portfolio of work in New Zealand at domestic level and as part of Super Rugby programmes.”
“He’s still young, just 25 years old, and has the versatility to play in the second row or back row, which adds important versatility and depth to our pack.
“One of the many benefits of Geoff Parling leading the programme is his in-depth knowledge of Super Rugby and he identified James as a player that he believes would be successful in our environment. “We’re looking forward to welcoming James, and his partner Ruby, to Leicester Tigers in the summer.”
