Leicester Tigers grant Marco van Staden an early release

Leicester Tigers have agreed terms with Marco van Staden, which will see the back-rower depart the club in the summer and return to South Africa to continue his injury rehabilitation.

The 26-year-old made 8 appearances in his lone season at the club after arriving during the opening months of the 21/22 campaign, after Test appearances for South Africa in the 2021 Rugby Championship.

Speaking about his time at Tigers, van Staden said: “It has been a short but unforgettable time at Leicester Tigers.”

“It was an honour and a privilege representing this club and being part of this special group.

“I want to thank every coach, staff member and player for making my time here worth every second and making life long friends in a short time.

“To the Tigers supporters, thank you for giving the best and most dedicated support I have ever experienced.”

Tigers Head Coach Steve Borthwick added: “Marco’s time with us has, unfortunately, been cut short by injury but his contribution to Leicester Tigers during this stage of our journey in a short space of time will not be forgotten.

“He has made a great contribution to Leicester Tigers and been a pleasure to coach, work with and learn from in his time at the club.

“On behalf of everyone at the club, I thank Marco - and his wife Chanel - for their part in our success this season and wish them well for their next chapter together.”

Successive concussions have sidelined van Staden in recent months.

Marco van Staden
Appearances: 8
Debut: October 9, 2021 v London Irish (Brentford Community Stadium)