Dalton Papali’i, captain of the Blues, will depart the club after the 2026 Super Rugby season to take up an opportunity with French Top 14 team Castres Olympique.
Papali’i, who debuted for the Blues in 2017, said the decision was extremely tough to make but the timing felt right atthis stage of his career.
“This club means everything to me. I grew up dreaming of wearing the Blues jersey and representing my country. I’ve been lucky enough to live that dream for a long time,” Papali’i said.
“The Blues gave me my chance, backed me and helped me become the player and person I am. This was a really hard decision, but the opportunity in France is something that works well for where I’m at in my career with my young family.
“I’m fully committed to finishing my time here the right way. I love this club, the people and our supporters, and I’ll keep giving everything I’ve got into the season ahead.”
Blues general manager of rugby Murray Williams acknowledged Papali’i’s contribution to the organisation.
“Dalton embodies everything it means to be a Blues man,” Williams said.
“We’re proud of what he’s achieved here and will continue to support him and his family as he takes on this next chapter. This club will always be his home.”
Papali’i took over the fulltime captaincy of the side in 2022-2023, before handing the reins to Patrick Tuipulotu. He took charge again for the start of this campaign while Tuipulotu has been out injured.
He is a 98-match veteran of the side and is on track to become a centurion during the round-three match against the Brumbies in Canberra.
He has played 37 times for the All Blacks, a move offshore would make him ineligible for the national side.
