Sebastian Luke Negri da Oleggio, born on June 30, 1994, is a Zimbabwean-born Italian professional rugby union player who primarily plays as a flanker for Benetton in the United Rugby Championship.
He has also represented Italy at the international level, making his test debut against the United States during the 2016 Summer Internationals. Negri has previously played for clubs such as Sharks and Western Province.
Negri was born in Marondera, Zimbabwe, and grew up in a family with Italian and Anglo-Zimbabwean heritage. He began playing rugby at the age of six while attending school in Zimbabwe. Due to political circumstances and land expropriations in the country, his family relocated to Durban, South Africa.
Negri continued his rugby development there, progressing through the youth teams of Natal and Western Province.
In 2014, Negri moved to the United Kingdom to study sports business management at Hartpury College in Gloucestershire. During his time at college, he joined the college's rugby team and caught the attention of Roland de Marigny, a former Italian-South African player, who recommended him to the Italian Rugby Federation.
Negri was subsequently called up to represent the Italian Under-20s and participated in the 2013 World Youth Trophy, where Italy emerged as the winners.
Negri made his debut for the Italian national team on June 18, 2016, in a match against the United States in San Jose. Following his international debut, he signed a two-year contract with Benetton in the Pro14 ahead of the 2017-2018 season. He has since become a key player for both Benetton and the Italian national team.
Negri has represented Italy in various competitions, including the Six Nations and the Rugby World Cup. He was named in Italy's final 31-man squad for the 2019 Rugby World Cup. Over the years, he has continued to contribute to the Italian team's success and has been an important presence in their forward pack.
In terms of his club career, Negri has amassed significant experience playing for Benetton, making 39 appearances and scoring 15 points. He signed a contract extension in 2022, committing to the club until June 2025. His performances on the field have established him as a talented and reliable flanker for both club and country.
Ahead of the Rugby World Cup 2023, Negri has been named in the squad for Italy.
KG(24/06/2023)
Career
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Italy Blindside Flanker |
2016 - present |
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Benetton Rugby Blindside Flanker |
2017 - present |
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World XV Blindside Flanker |
2023 - present |
