Who is Rieko Ioane? Controversial All Blacks rugby star headed to Ireland in shock move

In a move few Irish rugby fans saw coming, Leinster have pulled off a major signing coup by landing All Blacks star Rieko Ioane on a seven-month contract.

The 28-year-old is set to join the dominant Irish province after New Zealand’s Autumn Nations Series fixtures later this year.

Ioane follows in the footsteps of fellow Kiwi Jordie Barrett, who also took up a short-term stint in Ireland.

His move, however, has caused more of a stir. Not just for the timing, but because of the player’s high-profile and occasionally polarising presence on the international stage.

Born in Auckland and raised in a rugby-mad household, Ioane burst onto the scene as a teenage sensation. He debuted for the Blues in 2016 and has since racked up 120 appearances and over 250 points.

That same year, he earned his first All Blacks cap at just 19 years old, scoring against Italy after a standout run with the New Zealand Sevens team and an Olympic appearance in Rio.

Known for his electric pace, physicality, and versatility, Ioane has played across the backline, though he’s best known for his devastating runs at outside centre. He has scored 37 tries in 81 Test matches and featured in both the 2019 and 2023 Rugby World Cups.

While his talent is unquestioned, Ioane’s career hasn’t been without controversy, with his on-field confidence occasionally rubbing opponents and pundits the wrong way.

Leinster fans will remember Ioane’s fiery exchange with Johnny Sexton during a tense 2022 All Blacks-Ireland Test in Wellington.

After taunting Sexton in the closing stages of Ireland’s famous series win, Ioane drew the ire of Irish supporters and sparked post-match backlash. The incident added to his “love him or hate him” reputation and makes his arrival in Dublin all the more intriguing.

Leinster head coach Leo Cullen described the signing as a huge boost for the province, calling Ioane “a world-class… exciting, versatile outside back” who will bring a wealth of experience and energy to the squad.

Ioane, for his part, said he was looking forward to “an exciting opportunity” and spoke about his desire to experience life in Ireland with his family, adding that he’s “locked in” for the rest of the Super Rugby season with the Blues before making the switch.

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