The man who guided the Crusaders to seven Super Rugby titles is officially set to return to the red and black in 2027.
After months of whispers and speculation, Mo’unga and the Crusaders have just confirmed the news on social media, sending fans into a frenzy. “🔜 home 🤜🏽🫷🏽,” Mo’unga teased in his own announcement video.
The All Blacks shared more details, confirming: “Mo’unga has signed with NZR, Crusaders, and Canterbury from July 2026 until the end of 2027. Richie will be eligible for All Blacks selection from October 2026.”
While there had been speculation earlier in the year that Mo’unga might sign with Moana Pasifika, a cheeky sad face GIF in the comments seemingly confirms the Auckland-based team was gutted to miss out on the star player's signature.
“Richie is coming in in 2027, established, world-class, the World Cup is in his sights,” Crusaders head coach Rob Penney said in a follow-up press release.
Mo’unga’s Crusaders comeback is still a couple of seasons away, but in the meantime, he has signed with NZR, the Crusaders, and Canterbury from July 2026 until the end of 2027. He’ll be eligible for All Blacks selection from October 2026.
We could potentially see his international return during the Northern Tour of 2026, before he plays a game for the Crusaders in 2027.
Canterbury Rugby CEO Tony Smail said the Canterbury fans would be thrilled to see one of their favourite sons back in the NPC.
He’s got that right! Mo’unga fans couldn’t be more stoked, flooding the comments of every return post.
Kiwi actor KJ Apa commented on the All Blacks post: “This made my day!” “The GOAT returning,” another fan added. Someone else said: “The Final Chapter: Webb Ellis Awaits.”
The next Rugby World Cup will be held in Australia in 2027, and with Mo’unga back in full swing by then, we’ll all be eagerly awaiting any news of him putting on that number 10 jersey.
