Fijian centre Semi Radradra will depart Bristol Bears at the conclusion of the 2022/23 season to join French Top 14 side Lyon, the club can confirm.
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.”
4 other stars set to leave Bristol
#1. Will Porter to Harlequins
The scrum-half will join Harlequins at the conclusion of the 2022/23 season, the club can confirm.
Porter joined Bristol Bears from Wasps in October as a medical dispensation for Harry Randall until the end of the season, making seven appearances so far.
Director of Rugby, Pat Lam, said: “It’s been great to work with a player of Will’s calibre, especially during the long-term injury to Rands (Harry Randall).
“He’s contributed really well to the group on and off the field during his short time here and I know he will continue to do so until the end of the season.
“Will’s family and partner are based in London, so we are pleased he has an opportunity to finally return home and we wish him well for his journey ahead.”