Blues Captain Tuipulotu Signs For Three More Years

Blues captain Patrick Tuipulotu has re-signed with the club, and New Zealand Rugby (NZR), until the end of the 2028 DHL Super Rugby Pacific season.

One of the most respected figures in New Zealand rugby, Tuipulotu’s recommitment is a major moment for the club.

A talismanic leader and cornerstone of the Blues forward pack, Tuipulotu’s presence will remain central to the team’s ambitions.

Tuipulotu, who made his debut for the Blues in 2014, has since amassed over 100 caps for the club and established himself as one of the most dominant locks in Super Rugby.

“This club is home. I care deeply about the people, the jersey, and what it represents,” Tuipulotu said.

“I’m proud of what we’ve achieved, but I believe there’s still more to come. I’m excited about the future and honoured to lead this team into the next chapter.”

Standing at 1.98m, his imposing physicality and relentless work rate have long made him a key figure in both the Blues and All Blacks environments.

After taking on the full-time captaincy in 2020, Tuipulotu has helped shape the culture of the club, culminating in the historic 2024 Super Rugby Pacific title.

Despite suffering a serious injury late in the season, Tuipulotu returned in time to lead the team to victory in the Grand Final, a performance that epitomised his grit and character.

Now aged 32, Tuipulotu’s journey began at St Peter’s College in Auckland before rising through the New Zealand Schools and Under 20s programmes. He made his All Blacks debut in 2014.

Off the field, Tuipulotu has also been instrumental within the community as founder of the Blues Charitable Trust (BCT), a youth development charity on a mission to help rangatahi (young people) make informed choices and build brighter, more successful futures.

Blues CEO Andrew Hore said Tuipulotu’s re-signing represents much more than a just a contract extension.

“Patrick is the heartbeat of this team. He leads with integrity, plays with passion, and gives everything for the jersey,” he said.

“His decision to stay is a powerful endorsement of what we’ve built here at the Blues, and we couldn’t be more thrilled to have him with us through 2028.”

NZR General Manager Professional Rugby & Performance Chris Lendrum said it was exciting to have Tuipulotu re-sign.

“Pat’s resilience, dedication and consistency have been hallmarks of his career for the past decade, and he has grown into an influential leader in our game on and off the field. Committing to a further three years is testament to the passion and commitment Pat has for the teams and communities he represents, and his loyalty to New Zealand.”

All Blacks Assistant Coach Jason Ryan added to the endorsement.

“Patty brings a wealth of experience and a calm, commanding presence that lifts the standard of everyone around him. His leadership on and off the field is immense and having a player of his calibre commit to New Zealand Rugby through to 2028 is fantastic news.”

The Blues will begin preparations for the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific season later this year, with Tuipulotu once again set to lead from the front.

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