AUCKLAND – Dalton Papali’i, the captain of the Blues, will depart the Super Rugby franchise following the 2026 season to continue his career with Castres Olympique in France’s Top 14 competition. The announcement, made on Monday, , marks the end of a nine-year tenure with the Auckland-based club for one of its most celebrated players.
Papali’i, who debuted for the Blues in 2017, expressed the difficulty of the decision, emphasizing the deep connection he feels to the club and his country. “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,” he said in a statement released by the team. The impending move will likely make him ineligible for selection for the All Blacks, a significant consequence of choosing to play outside of New Zealand’s rugby system.
The 2022-2023 Blues captain, who recently resumed leadership duties following an injury to Patrick Tuipulotu, is on track to reach 100 appearances for the club during Round 3’s match against the Brumbies in Canberra. Currently at 98 games, Papali’i’s milestone will serve as a fitting prelude to his departure at the end of the season. His leadership and commitment have been consistently lauded by team officials.
Blues General Manager of Rugby, Murray Williams, acknowledged Papali’i’s substantial contribution to the organization. “Dalton embodies everything it means to be a Blues man,” Williams stated. “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.” The sentiment underscores the high regard in which Papali’i is held within the Blues organization.
The decision to move to Castres Olympique, a team in the competitive French Top 14 league, appears to be driven by a desire for a new challenge and a focus on his young family’s future. Papali’i indicated that the opportunity in France “works well for where I’m at in my career with my young family,” suggesting a desire for a different lifestyle or financial security. The Top 14 is known for its physicality and high level of competition, attracting many of the world’s top rugby players.
Despite the impending departure, Papali’i remains fully committed to the Blues for the remainder of the 2026 Super Rugby season. “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,” he affirmed. This dedication ensures that the team can rely on his leadership and experience as they navigate the challenges of the upcoming campaign.
Papali’i’s move follows a growing trend of New Zealand rugby players seeking opportunities in European leagues, often citing financial incentives and the desire for new experiences. While the Blues will undoubtedly feel the loss of their captain and a key player, the club has expressed its support for his decision and wishes him well in his future endeavors. The departure also raises questions about the long-term sustainability of retaining top talent within New Zealand’s domestic rugby system.
The timing of the announcement, made early in the season, allows the Blues ample time to prepare for life after Papali’i. The club will likely begin evaluating potential replacements for the captaincy and identifying players who can fill the void left by his departure. The focus will be on maintaining the team’s competitive edge and continuing its pursuit of Super Rugby success.
Papali’i’s legacy at the Blues will be one of leadership, dedication, and unwavering commitment to the club and its supporters. His impact extends beyond his on-field performances, as he has become a role model for aspiring rugby players in New Zealand. His departure marks the end of an era for the Blues, but his contributions will be long remembered.