The Albany Gazette - Fijian Drua sign France international back Vakatawa

The 33-year-old was forced to quit Top 14 side Racing 92 in September 2022 due to his heart problem, although the following year he controversially joined Bristol Bears in the English Prem for one season.

The news comes in the same week that France international prop Uini Atonio was forced to retire at the age of 35 after suffering a heart attack.

Vakatawa, who won 32 caps for France as a centre or wing, trained with the Super Rugby side Drua last year, also playing in the Fijian domestic league.

Born in New Zealand -- like Atonio -- but brought up in his parents' homeland Fiji, Vakatawa also played Sevens for France.

"I'm so thankful that, with my experience, I can help these young men, and share with them my experience from France and my playing career," Vakatawa said in a statement announcing his arrival on the Drua website.

"I know the future of Fiji rugby is in this squad, and I've watched them, I've trained with them, and I know that they will go further in their career."

Vakatawa was named Europe's top player in 2020.

His signing comes after the Drua lost several star names to France's Top 14 and the Japanese league.

The Drua finished 10th out of 11 teams in Super Rugby last season. Their best finish since joining the competition in 2022 was seventh in both 2023 and 2024, after which they lost in the quarter-finals both times to the eventual champions -- the Crusaders and then the Blues.

(B.Ramirez--TAG)