Gloucester winger Christian Wade has sensationally signed for rugby league’s Wigan Warriors on a short-term deal.
Wade will make the swap upon the conclusion of Gloucester’s Gallagher Premiership season.
The 33-year-old former England winger will play with Wigan for the remainder of the 2025 season, the membership have confirmed.
Former NFL operating again Wade mentioned: “I’m excited to hitch Wigan Warriors, a Membership with an amazing legacy. I’m honoured to be becoming a member of an inventory of legendary gamers who’ve performed for this Membership. I’m trying ahead to this subsequent chapter in my profession and I can’t wait to get began.
“It’s been an actual honour to play for Gloucester over the previous 12 months. I’ve liked taking part in Gallagher Premiership rugby once more.
“I’d prefer to thank George and the coaches for the chance, the boys for making daily pleasing and the followers for his or her love and assist this season.
“I’m excited for the problem, however for now, my focus stays wholly on ending the season strongly with Gloucester.”
The 33-year-old represented Wasps for seven years, scoring 82 tries in Premiership rugby.
It is going to be his third sporting code after taking part in for NFL facet the Buffalo Payments after switching to American soccer for a spell in 2018.
Gloucester director of rugby George Skivington mentioned of the flyer’s departure: “Christian’s been a fantastic addition for us this season, he’s scored some unbelievable tries and been a key a part of what we’re doing, particularly in assault.
“Wadey is a superb character and his positivity and power is infectious. He has undoubtedly made his mark right here. He leaves with the very best needs of everybody at Gloucester as he takes on a brand new problem in Rugby League.”
Wigan Warriors CEO Kris Radlinski mentioned: “The brand new Expertise Pool Exemption was created exactly for the sort of recruitment. Christian is an distinctive athlete with extremely transferable expertise suited to Rugby League. His spectacular monitor document speaks for itself and we’re genuinely excited concerning the impression he could make all through the rest of the 2025 season.”
Warriors Head Coach Matt Peet added: “We look ahead to welcoming Christian and his associate Lisa to Wigan. In addition to working onerous to be taught a brand new sport, we predict Christian to carry his personal persona to the workforce by way of his athleticism, ability and expertise.
“I do know Wigan followers might be excited and provides him an incredible welcome.”
Wigan and Nice Britain rugby league legend Martin Offiah MBE mentioned: “Wigan’s signing of Christian Wade is the most important coup for the game of rugby league since Jonathan Davies joined me at Widnes again within the 80s.”
