Scrum-half Andy Uren will join Italian URC side Benetton Treviso at the conclusion of the season.
The 27-year-old Bristolian, who has made over 150 appearances for his boyhood club, has been granted an early contract release request to join the Italian side.
Director of Rugby Pat Lam said: “Andy came to us with a very significant offer on the table from Benetton to go there as first-choice scrum half and asked us to consider the possibility of a release.
“When you consider the contribution that Andy has made to the club on and off the field, playing more than 150 games, Harry Randall being committed to the Bears long term; and the fact that this is a life-changing opportunity for him and his family, it was an opportunity we felt Andy deserved and he leaves with our full support.
“Andy can be very proud of what he has achieved at Bristol Bears to date – and at just 26 years old, the plan is for him to return an even better player and person from the incredible experience of playing in a different country and competition.”
Uren said: “It’s been such a difficult decision to leave Bristol, but the opportunity in Treviso was something that I had to take for the next stage of my career. I’ve been at Bristol for a long time and I’m looking forward to broadening my rugby knowledge and life experience overseas.
“I’m hugely grateful to Pat and the club – not only for their support during my 13 years at Bristol – but for granting me an early release at the end of the current season to take up this opportunity in Benetton. The culture and environment that has been created here are second to none and I have no doubt the club will continue to go from strength to strength.
“I’m really excited by what we can achieve at Bristol Bears in the final period of the season and hope to finish my time here on a high.”
FOUR OTHER PLAYERS LEAVING BRISTOL BEARS
#1. Semi Radradra to Lyon
Radradra, who joined the Bears from Bordeaux-Begles in July 2020, has made 46 appearances for the club, helping them to a maiden European title in October 2020 and a first-place finish in the Gallagher Premiership in 2021/22.
Director of Rugby, Pat Lam, said: “We’re very grateful to Semi for his dedication and commitment to the Bears during his time here. Semi was very instrumental in our Challenge Cup success in 2020 and in helping the team finish top of the Gallagher Premiership in the 2021-22 season.
“Semi is not just a world class talent but an outstanding team man. He has made a significant impact for our team on and off the field helping and inspiring a lot of our people, especially the younger players, showing them through his actions what being a true professional is all about. These qualities have enabled him to battle back from two serious knee injuries which will allow him to continue to have a positive impact for us in our run-in for the rest of the season.
“It has been a real pleasure to have him at the Bears and we all wish him and his family well for his next chapter.”
Radradra said: “I can’t thank the club enough for all they’ve done during my time here.
“It’s a fantastic club, with great supporters and I will miss it. I’m extremely motivated to finish the season strongly and put in some memorable performances, particularly at Ashton Gate.”