Sevu Reece to depart the Crusaders at the end of the 2026 season

Sevu Reece will be departing the Crusaders at the conclusion of the 2026 season, having signed with French side Perpignan.  

Reece remains contracted with New Zealand Rugby and the Crusaders for the entirety of 2026. 

Reece has been a cornerstone of the Crusaders since making his unforgettable debut on 9 March 2019 against the Chiefs in Christchurch, where he scored two tries and earned Man of the Match. That breakout season saw him finish as Super Rugby’s top try-scorer and earn a fast-tracked All Blacks call-up. 

Over seven seasons in red and black, Reece has achieved remarkable milestones. On 23 May this year, in front of a sell-out crowd at Apollo Projects Stadium, the 28-year-old scored his 66th Super Rugby try, surpassing TJ Perenara’s all-time Super Rugby try scoring record.  

Beyond his on-field brilliance, Reece has been a passionate Child Cancer Foundation Ambassador, dedicating time and energy to community initiatives that have touched countless lives. 

Crusaders Head Coach Rob Penney says Reece’s impact on the team and the region has been immense. 

“The amount of growth Sevu has had in his time in the red and black since 2019 is a credit to his character. While at this club, he’s started his own family, achieved a huge amount of milestones, and helped lead this team to six titles. He’s also on track to earn his 100th Crusaders cap this year which will be a special way to end his last season with us.” 

Reflecting on his journey, Reece says the Crusaders will always hold a special place in his heart. 

“This club has given me everything and I will forever be grateful for all the opportunities I have had in the red and black. I’ll miss so many things about this club, but mainly the people – they are what make the Crusaders so special. The friendships I’ve made in my time here will stay with me forever. 

“It’s a bittersweet time and this hasn’t been an easy decision at all, but my family and I are really excited for this next adventure together in France, however I still have a job to do here. I can’t wait for this season, I’m really hoping I can finish on a high and win one last title, and to do that under the roof at the new stadium will be unreal.” 

As Reece prepares for his final season, and his first under the roof at One New Zealand Stadium, Crusaders fans will have one more year to celebrate a player who has given so much to the jersey, the team, and the community.