Leicester Tigers have agreed terms with Jordan Taufua, allowing the back-rower an early release from his contract to take up an opportunity in France.
The release was subject to a successful completion of a two-part medical, which has now been completed.
Taufua made 18 appearances for Leicester since debuting in November 2019 and scored three tries.
“We would not have made this decision had we not believed we had the depth in our group to continue to see competition for places in the back row, which we have seen a strong improvement in recently at the club"
Steve Borthwick
The 28-year-old joined Tigers from New Zealand side Crusaders in Super Rugby in the opening weeks of the 2019/20 season.
Tigers head coach Steve Borthwick thanked Taufua for his contribution on and off the pitch during the early stages of a new era in the club’s history.
“Jordan is a talented, experienced player and we are grateful to him for what he has given to Leicester Tigers during almost 18 months at the club,” said Borthwick.
“Supporters and people outside of the environment see a very small part of what goes on each week and Jordan has brought energy, enthusiasm and experience to our club at a crucial time while we re-shape our squad, which we will be better off for having had at Tigers.
“We all wish Jordan well in his next chapter as a player.”
Speaking about the decision between the club and Taufua, the Tigers head coach added: “The past year has been a well-documented, unique time in the game in many ways and, like almost every club, we have faced unprecedented challenges in managing our squad.
“An opportunity came up for Jordan to take up a new challenge in his career and, after positive dialogue with him, we came to an agreement that we feel works for both parties.
“We would not have made this decision had we not believed we had the depth in our group to continue to see competition for places in the back row, which we have seen a strong improvement in recently at the club.”
Taufua added: “It isn’t how I wanted to finish up my time at Tigers, especially without a chance to say goodbye to the fans at Welford Road, but I am very grateful for all that I have experienced in my time in Leicester.”
“It has been a challenging time but I have learned a lot and will always cherish my time and the experiences I had as a Leicester Tigers player and friendships I made at the club.
“I appreciate the professional way this has been handled and am looking forward to what is ahead for me.
“I wish Leicester Tigers all the best going forward and will cheer them on from afar.”
Having now completed the two-part medical, Taufua has been released from Leicester Tigers and joined Lyon Olympique Universitaire for the remainder of the 2020/21 French Top 14 season.
