ACT Brumbies prop James Slipper is ready to do it all again as he commits to a 17th Super Rugby season.
Slipper confirmed his decision to suit up for the Brumbies in 2027 on Thursday, adding to his record 212 Super Rugby games.
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It came off the back of an ageless performance in 2026, playing nearly every game for the Brumbies in their quarter-final exit.
After spending some time weighing up his options, the 37-year-old is set for another ride.
"It took a few months," he told reporters. "Like I've always said, I wanted to squeeze the sponge and make sure when I'm finished, I'm properly finished.
"I've always enjoyed my time down here. It became a pretty easy decision based off the back of support from the family, so it's been good."
Slipper's form was so strong in 2026 that then Wallabies coach Joe Schmidt convinced him to come out of retirement for the Nations Championship against Ireland, France and Italy.
With former teammates Bernard Foley, Nick Phipps and James O'Connor returning to Australia with the 2027 Rugby World Cup on their minds, Slipper remained coy on his own future in gold.
"[2027 Rugby World Cup] wasn't a big factor. I think for me, I was happily retired last year, but in the back of my mind, I always thought I could still play rugby and I've really enjoyed the club," he explained.
"...I don't want to get too far ahead of myself because the boys are doing pretty well now without me. It's not a factor for me. It'd be nice to represent the Wallabies and if they needed me, I'd make sure I'm ready to go.
"The main focus for me is the Brumbies and making sure it's a successful year."
With Brumbies loosehead Blake Schoupp still on the mend, coach Stephen Larkham believes Slipper's consistency in 2026 made the decision to re-sign the prop an easy one.
"Slips is still playing outstanding rugby. He was one of our most consistent performers throughout 2026 and he’s shown he can continue to make a big impact for this team," he said in a statement.
“What he brings away from game day is just as important. He’s an exceptional leader, he drives standards every day and the knowledge he passes on to our younger players is invaluable.
“Our players, members and fans love what Slips represents. He’s become synonymous with the Brumbies through his toughness and consistency, and we’re excited they’ll get to see him pull on the jersey for another season.”
Slipper is not expected to feature in Super Rugby AUS, but will train with the team to stay ready if needed by Les Kiss' Wallabies team later in the year.
