The Queensland Rugby Union is pleased to confirm that experienced Fijian international Ben Volavola has signed a one-year deal to play with the Queensland Reds in 2026.
Volavola's versatility to contribute as a flyhalf, inside centre or fullback makes him a valuable addition as a backline utility player with his top-level experience in all three positions.
Volavola, 34, is delighted to link with the Reds to continue a career that has seen him play more than 200 games professionally and represent Fiji at the 2015 and 2019 Rugby World Cups.
He played 10 games last season with English club Leicester Tigers where longer-term ambitions were reignited under his former NSW Waratahs coach Michael Cheika. He remains available for Fiji and his Australian eligibility will be reactivated next year as well.
"The biggest reason I found the Reds so appealing is believing that they have a squad that can challenge for some silverware," Volavola said.
"With a two-year-old son, the attraction of getting back to Australia and being surrounded by family is appealing as well.
"To play international rugby again and get myself to a Rugby World Cup in Australia in 2027 is definitely an ambition. That is a long-term goal that I'm very inspired and driven to do."
The Australian-born Volavola was schooled in Sydney where he broke into the Waratahs in 2013 before embarking on a rugby journey with clubs in New Zealand, France and England plus playing 38 Tests for Fiji.
He is no stranger to the demands of Super Rugby with 26 appearances during stints for the Waratahs, Crusaders (2016) and Melbourne Rebels (2017).
"Even being in Europe, I tried to stay up to date with Super Rugby via YouTube highlights. Seeing how the Reds play the game is one of the things that excites me," Volavola added.
"There's a run-the-ball mentality but a smart kicking game and impressive work by the forwards mixed into that attacking identity.
"Playing under 'Cheik' at Leicester reinvigorated my game. It was a blessing.
"I've played flyhalf, fullback and centre in Europe. You get chucked into the centres and it helps you become a better 10 or playmaker because you better understand how your outside men like the ball delivered."
Reds Head Coach Les Kiss is upbeat about securing Volavola for the club's 2026 squad.
"The ability to play multiple positions is a really strong attribute within our Reds squad," Kiss said.
"Ben has experience at the top level in multiple positions, he's a proven kicker and his previous seasons in Super Rugby will hold him in good stead. He will be a useful and experienced voice around our younger backs."
Position: Utility - Flyhalf/Fullback/Centre
Height: 191cm
Weight: 95kg
Born: 13/1/1991
Place of birth: Sydney
Senior Club: Sunnybank
School: Endeavour Sports High/Newington College
Junior Club: Seaforth Raiders, Sydney
Super Rugby debut: 2013 (NSW Waratahs) v Queensland Reds, Brisbane
Super Rugby caps: 26 (Waratahs 8, Crusaders 7, Melbourne Rebels 11)
Tests: 38 (Fiji)
Test debut: 2015 v Maori All Blacks, Suva
