Flying winger Wade set for Kingsholm

Gloucester Rugby is delighted to confirm the signing of Christian Wade from Top 14 club, Racing 92.

The wing will link up with the Cherry & Whites ahead of the 2024/25 season.

Wade made his professional rugby debut in 2011 for former Gallagher Premiership side, Wasps, where he went on to make 165 appearances for the club.

During the 2012/13 season, Wade was named both Players’ Player of the Year and the Young Player of the Year, after finishing joint leading try-scorer with 13 tries in the Premiership and was selected for the 2013 British & Irish Lions tour of Australia.

In October 2018, Wade left rugby to pursue a career in American Football, with a dream to play in the National Football League (NFL).

Wade joined the International Player Pathway (IPP), the same programme that former Gloucester wing, Louis Rees-Zammit, recently enrolled on. After graduating the IPP, Wade was contracted to the Buffalo Bills as a running back.

Wade left Buffalo, and the NFL completely, in 2022, paving the way for his return to rugby, joining Parisian side, Racing, for whom he has scored seven tries for so far.

Director of Rugby, George Skivington, commented:

“Everyone at the Club is thrilled to welcome Christian to Gloucester.

“It’s been clear since he returned from America that he has come back in even better shape and still has that sixth sense for the try line that he had before he left.

“We’ve got a pretty exciting stock of back three players here, but it’s hugely pleasing to add someone of Christian’s experience to that group.”

Christian Wade spoke of his elation to be heading back to England.

“I’m excited to be returning to the Premiership next season and for a great Club like Gloucester.

“After speaking with George (Skivington), I believe in his vision and ambition for the team and I can’t wait to play my part in that.

“I have fond memories of playing at Kingsholm in Wasps colours so I’m looking forward to getting out there in Cherry & White next season.”