'High ceiling' - Oviedo pens two-year deal to remain with Force

Thu, Jun 11, 2026, 7:55 AM
BS
by Ben Somerford

The Western Force is thrilled to confirm Argentinian hooker Leonel Oviedo has re-signed with the Club for a further two seasons, keeping him in the west until 2028.

Oviedo, 28, originally joined the Force on an injury cover contract but has earned a permanent stay following an impressive debut season in WA where head coach Simon Cron and his assistants quickly noticed his potential.

The Argentinian rake joined the Force during the 2026 Swyftx Super Rugby Pacific pre-season, going on to play four games and score one try in a competitive position alongside hookers Brandon Paenga-Amosa and Nic Dolly.

Enjoyed the ride!?! Register your interest in a 2027 Western Force Membership today

Oviedo is uncapped at international level but trained with Felipe Contepomi’s Los Pumas squad in 2024 and played for the Argentina XV in two games last November against Bristol and Munster.

The hooker’s vast overseas experience in Uruguay, France and Argentina helped him transition into life in Australia and Cron is optimistic he’ll continue to progress with the benefit of a full pre-season next campaign.

Cron said: “Leo has been with us now for six months. He’s had limited gametime but he has a high ceiling.

“We plan to have a great pre-season with him to help grow his game in terms of the speed of Super Rugby.

“He brings power and size to our front row. We’re looking forward to getting him back into the Western Force jersey.”

Oviedo said he was thrilled to remain in Perth where he wants to keep developing his game.

“I’m very happy to re-sign with the Western Force for another two seasons,” Oviedo said.

“I really enjoyed my first six months in Perth and with the team.

“I can see the Force is the place to help me grow my game and I’m excited to continue to develop with the help of the coaches and playing group.”

Leonel Oviedo

DOB: 16/2/1998

Height: 186cm

Position: Hooker

International career history

Argentina XV (2 caps, 2025- )

Super Rugby history

Western Force (2026- , 4 caps, 1 try)

Enjoyed the ride!?! Register your interest in a 2027 Western Force Membership today

Share
Lehopoame Leota is one of two new imports into the Australia U20s squad from overseas. Photo: Instagram/@moshoot8
King pair: Australia U20s building overseas connections as French-based duo set for historic first
Halaholo signs new one-year contract with the Tahs
Milestone-man McKenzie ready to 'rip' into Crusaders in Super semi
International duo, Sevens/Super stars named in loaded Australia U20s squad for Junior World Championship