The Western Force have signed rugby great Kurtley Beale, locking in a short-term deal with the 95-cap Wallaby until the end of the 2024 Super Rugby Pacific season.
Beale has had a decorated career, representing the Wallabies at three World Cups and taking out the esteemed John Eales Medal in 2011 for Australian rugby’s male player of the year.
The talented all-rounder can play in numerous positions and brings vast Super Rugby experience as the second most capped NSW Waratahs men’s player (148) in franchise history.
The 35-year-old was part of the Waratahs’ side that won the 2014 Super Rugby title and has also played for the Melbourne Rebels (2012-2013) along with stints overseas with Wasps in England (2016-2017) and Racing 92 in France (2020-2022).
Force head coach Simon Cron said: “With the recent injury to Harry Potter the door opens for Kurtley to join our squad. He will add valuable experience and rugby brains to our playing group.
“Kurtley has reached the top of the game during his playing career, playing at three World Cups, bringing up almost 100 Wallabies caps and winning a Super Rugby title. He also has very positive relationships with some of our existing squad members which was important in the decision.”
Last month, he returned with an impressive display at 10 for Randwick in their Australian Rugby Championship 25-18 loss to Brothers, leading to the Force signing him on a short-term deal.
Cron added: “Having coached KB before, I know he is a player who will always help to develop young talent and add to the team’s leadership on field.”
Force CEO Niamh O’Connor said that the Club sees Beale as an integral part of its plans for success.
“We know where we want to take the Club and Kurtley is an exciting addition in our plans for growth and success,” O’Connor said.
“Throughout our discussions with Kurtley, he’s shown us his burning determination and passion for the game. He’s very keen to make the most of this opportunity to play Super Rugby again.
“We are looking forward to welcoming Kurtley and his young family to the club.”
Beale said he is grateful to the Force for the opportunity to continue his career.
“I’m excited to join the Force and I’m looking forward to making the move to Perth with my family,” Beale said.
“There’s enormous potential across the Force’s playing group and I’m eager to support the momentum they’re building. I know I have plenty to offer and I’m grateful for the opportunity to continue playing the game that I love.”
Beale made his Wallabies debut in 2009 and was nominated for IRB international player of the year in 2011.
In addition to his 10-year playing career on the international stage, Beale supports grassroots rugby and is passionate about helping Indigenous boys and girls get involved in the game.
Beale will commence training with the Force playing group in Perth following the men’s squad’s upcoming five-day bye week.
