Former All Blacks tighthead prop John Afoa will play on next season despite being 38 years old, but not as a Bristol Bears.
The 36-cap New Zealand international frontrower has signed for French ProD2 side Vannes on a two-year deal having split his time between being a player and scrum coach at Bristol during the 2021/22 season.
Afoa joined the Bears from Gloucester Rugby in 2018/19 having previously played for Auckland Blues in Super Rugby and Ulster.
Despite his advancing age, Afoa has been a regular for Bristo this season, making 15 appearances including four Champions Cup matches with first choice Kyle Sinckler missing much of the club season on international duty with England.
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Discussing the move, Afoa said “ I am excited by this challenge and enthusiastic about the idea of playing for a new staff and learning a new style of rugby.
“I can't wait to face all these young players in the Pro D2 championship and bring all my experience to my teammates and thus help Rugby Club Vannes achieve its goals.
“I have always wanted to come and live in France, to learn and discover this culture. I can't wait to start this new chapter of my career."
Afoa’s move leaves Bristol in need of a new tighthead and scrum coach.
Bristol director of rugby Pat Lam said: "Jonny leaves a legacy as one of the greatest ever tightheads to play in the Premiership. As well as being a world class scrummager, his skill level and ability to play ball ('the Razzle') is second to none. To perform consistently at the top for over 20 years is a testament to his dedication, commitment and love of our game.
“Jonny was key signing for us when we returned to the Premiership in 2018 and he made the exact impact I was looking for as a leader and mentor helping the club make huge strides on our journey to Inspiring Our Community Through Rugby Success.
“I am delighted that Jonny has an opportunity to experience a new country as part of his amazing rugby journey and he departs with massive respect and the gratitude of everybody at the Bears community.”
