LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
Brisbane Broncos outside back Israel Leota has announced his transition to rugby union.
Leota has signed a two-year contract with the Moana Pasifika team for the 2026 and 2027 seasons in the Super Rugby Pacific competition.
Considered one of the most promising young talents in the NRL, he has struggled to secure a position in the first team during his time with the Broncos, even after representing the junior Queensland team in both 2023 and 2024.
Although his opportunity may have come in the near future, the Broncos have strong competition for their back five positions.
Leota is opting to return to rugby union, a sport he enjoyed in his youth, motivated by the appealing environment of the Pasifika team in the Super Rugby competition.
"I've been watching from afar and I can see the environment that the team has created. It looks infectious. It looks like it's a great place to be around," Leota stated.
"It is also a really good opportunity for me to come over and have a crack at the game that I grew up in and have loved for a long time."