Gloucester Rugby has scored a major transfer win by signing 53-cap All Black prop Nepo Laulala. The 34-year-old tighthead joins the Gallagher Premiership club ahead of the 2025/26 season, adding significant experience and strength to the Cherry and Whites' front row.
After spending the last three months rehabilitating an Achilles injury at Kingsholm, Laulala is now fully fit and ready to compete. He will provide strong competition in the front row alongside rising talent Afolabi Fasogbon and seasoned Russian prop Kirill Gotovtsev. Fasogbon, notably, was recently omitted from England’s squad preparing to face a France XV at Twickenham.
Laulala brings a wealth of international and club experience, having been a mainstay in New Zealand’s All Blacks pack for eight years and earning 53 international caps. His career highlights include participating in two Rugby World Cups, securing third place in Japan in 2019 and runner-up in France in 2023.
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At the club level, Laulala’s journey began in Auckland, where he attended Wesley College. He later moved to Canterbury to play first-team rugby in the ITM Cup, quickly making an impression that led to a spot with the Crusaders in Super Rugby. He also represented the Chiefs and the Blues during his time in New Zealand.
Following the 2023 Rugby World Cup, Laulala made the move to the Northern Hemisphere, signing with French Top 14 powerhouse Toulouse. Unfortunately, a ruptured Achilles cut his time there short, sidelining him for an extended period.
Gloucester Director of Rugby George Skivington expressed his excitement: “Nepo’s international pedigree speaks for itself. We acted swiftly to bring him in and support his rehab, giving us an edge. He’s responding well to all the medical and fitness tests, and we’re confident he will make a significant impact this season. Huge credit to Rhys Hughes and our Medical Department for their exceptional work.”
Laulala himself acknowledged Gloucester’s support during his recovery: “I’m grateful to George and everyone at Gloucester for welcoming me during a challenging time in France. It was uncertain where my future lay, but I’m eager to repay the club’s faith. I’ve heard fantastic things about Gloucester and the passionate Cherry & White fans—I can’t wait to get out there and play.”