Rugby Australia has formally accused French clubs of targeting and recruiting teenage Australian players, lodging an official complaint with World Rugby to address what it calls “unauthorized poaching” of underage talent.
The move comes after Top 14 club La Rochelle signed 16-year-old Queensland forward Visesio Kite earlier this year. Reports also suggest that 17-year-old prospect Heinz Lemoto is being pursued by French clubs.
Rugby Australia Chairman Daniel Herbert voiced frustration over the growing trend, calling for World Rugby to urgently clarify and enforce transfer rules involving youth players.
“France has the ability to develop its own talent. They don’t need to poach ours at such a young age,” Herbert told reporters on Thursday. “There has to be a coming together on what is allowed and what isn’t.”
Herbert emphasized that the issue goes beyond the two known cases, suggesting more young Australians may be targeted by overseas clubs.
Calls for Rule Clarity and Stronger Enforcement
A Sydney Morning Herald report revealed that several international rugby unions are urging World Rugby to tighten regulations concerning youth player transfers.
World Rugby’s current rules prohibit the unauthorized recruitment of underage players across national unions. Sanctions are in place for violations, but enforcement has been inconsistent, according to critics.
Herbert clarified that the French Rugby Federation is not directly responsible for the incidents. Instead, he pointed to professional clubs acting independently.
“These clubs are working directly with agents here,” he said. “We don’t do it. Most other countries don’t do it. So this is something we will continue to pursue with World Rugby.”
Rugby Australia’s stance signals growing concern about the international talent pipeline and the integrity of youth development systems.
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