Bears sign rising Pumas’ powerhouse Pedro Rubiolo

Rising Argentinian star Pedro Rubiolo will join Bristol Bears on a long-term deal ahead of the 2025/26 campaign as the club secures the services of one of international rugby’s most exciting young prospects.

The versatile 21-year-old second row, who can also play in the back row, joins from fellow Gallagher Premiership side Newcastle Falcons after two seasons in the North East.

Rubiolo has already amassed 19 caps for the Pumas having made his debut against World Champions South Africa at just 19-years-old.

The 6ft3, 114kg powerhouse started in the Argentina engine room against Ireland in last weekend’s Autumn Nations Series clash in Dublin.

Director of Rugby, Pat Lam, said: “Pedro is one of the rising stars of Argentinian rugby and has already established himself as the starting lock in the Pumas squad at just 21 years old. He has impressed both domestically with Newcastle Falcons and internationally with the Pumas.

“He has started in all of Argentina’s Autumn Nations Series fixtures to date as well as five out six games in Rugby Championship including victories over the World Champion Springboks and the All Blacks in New Zealand during the summer.

“We’re excited by the physicality and work rate that he will add to our forward pack, and we look forward to welcoming Pedro into the Bears family next season.”

Rubiolo said: “I’m excited to be joining Bristol Bears from next season. It’s an ambitious club playing an exciting brand of rugby and I’m relishing the opportunity.

“Having spoken to Pat Lam about the club’s vision and targets and seen their world class facilities, I believe it’s the perfect environment for the next chapter of my career.

“I’ve had an incredible few seasons with Newcastle Falcons and I’m really grateful to the club for the opportunities they have given me.”