The ACT Brumbies have moved swiftly to lock down prop Lington Ieli on a long-term deal until the end of the 2028 season.
Ieli has been one of the finds of the season for the Brumbies, making his debut in the opening round of Super Rugby Pacific in his native Fiji against the Fijian Drua.
Watch every second of the 2025 Autumn Nations Series live and on demand via Stan Sport.
The 21-year-old would become a reliable contributor for the club throughout the competition and found himself on rep radars after his call-up to the Wallabies wider squad.
He started against the British & Irish Lions for both the Brumbies and First Nations Pasifika XV, with the prop almost inspiring the invitational team to victory at Marvel Stadium.
Ieli backed this up with selection in the Australia A squad to face Japan XV last month, coming off the bench and scoring a try in the big victory.
“I’m really happy and glad for the opportunity to stay and keep playing for this incredible club,” Ieli said.
“The Brumbies have helped me thrive and improve as a player and a person. I can’t wait to continue my journey in Canberra and develop my game further with this group.”
The former Australia U20s looms as a key piece of the Brumbies’ front-row future, with ex-Wallabies prop Blake Schoupp continuing his rehab from a ruptured Achilles in April.
It comes with James Slipper retiring from Test Rugby, however, will still feature for the Brumbies in 2026.
“The progress Lington has made in the last year has been incredible. He’s grown into an outstanding young rugby player,” coach Stephen Larkham said.
“What’s been most impressive is his work-rate and desire to improve. He has developed exceptionally well in his set-piece areas and particularly the scrum. We’re excited to have him on board for the next three seasons.
“We now have three quality loosehead props in (James) Slipper, (Blake) Schoupp and Lington, who will all be pushing each other for a place in 2026.”
