He feels rugby “needs more of this”
All Blacks star, Rieko Ioane, is set to move to Leinster after this year’s November internationals. The surprise transfer follows a public spat with Leinster icon Johnny Sexton, who had a post-match incident with the New Zealand centre in 2023.
After Ireland were knocked out of the 2023 Rugby World Cup quarter-final by the All Blacks, the former Ireland captain engaged in a war of words with Ioane. Sexton alleged in his autobiography that Ioane told him “don’t miss your flight tomorrow. Enjoy your retirement, you c**t”.
The All Blacks would also come out on top in the next match between the sides, winning 23-13, in November 2024. Ioane threw one last dig at Sexton on Instagram, posting multiple photos of him leading the Haka, with the caption “Put that in the book”.
The news of Ioane’s caused a stir, due to the popularity of the now-retired Sexton, but he told reporters he “can’t wait” to join Leinster, and that he is hoping to turn the support “60/40” in his favour, which his friends say is “50/50” at the moment.
Ioane said: “Fans will be fans, I’m no stranger to a bit of this. Rugby needs more of this, I love this side of the game. We’ll have to wait and see when I’m over there.
“It is a huge headline, but for me it’s more about just getting to the club and playing the best rugby with the boys. I haven’t had to meet new teammates for close to eight, nine years. This has always been home, so that’s going to be cool too.”
The All Blacks star will replace another All-Blacks man, Jordie Barrett, who is set to leave when Leinster’s URC campaign concludes. Ioane’s deal is similar to Barrett’s, and he was someone Ioane spoke to when deciding to make the move.
Ioane added: “I messaged Jordie leading up to it and seeing what his experiences were, how he’s coped with and enjoyed the change. His words echoed mine, that it was something fresh, something completely different.
“They’re one of those historical clubs and one with a rich history. I haven’t seen too much when I’ve been there, but from what I have, it’s been pretty enjoyable.”
