Queensland Reds and Benetton Rugby Forge Pioneering Player Loan Partnership

Queensland Rugby Union (QRU) and Italian club Benetton Rugby have formalised a “pioneering partnership” that will see four Queensland Reds players undertake loan stints with the United Rugby Championship (URC) side.

This collaboration aims to bolster player development while enhancing competitive dynamics across both regions.

Leading the delegation is Wallabies representative Josh Flook, joined by John Bryant, Louis Werchon, and Richie Asiata.

Expressing his excitement, a back-rower John Bryant, said: “I’m super excited. It’s huge to get an opportunity with a major European club,its a different skills and ways to play the game.”

Elaborating the strategic advantages of this partnership and noting the discussion with Benetton GM Antonio Pavalenello, Reds GM of Rugby, Sam Cordingley, said: “Mutual benefits will drive this partnership.”

Hinting a potential for sustained collaboration and leveraging rugby’s international appeal through strategic partnerships, including with Japan’s Saitama Panasonic Wild Knights.

“Rather than players leaving the club to experience chances like this, we are creating something unique while they are still Reds players with secondments at a famous club in a beautiful part of Italy,” Cordingley added.

Underscoring the goal of an established international rugby ecosystem, Antonio Pavanello, added: “The chance to exchange knowledge and methodologies between the technical staffs of the two franchises will enrich our coaches’ preparation and evolve our sporting offering.”

The delegation will embark on three-month secondment deals to the Treviso-based club, poised for selection in the initial rounds of the URC, commencing in September.

Importantly, all four players will remain eligible for international selection for Australia while gaining valuable international experience.

The partnership’s genesis is linked to former Queensland Reds flyhalf Michael Lyngah, who has historical ties to both clubs. This connection has facilitated an arrangement designed for mutual benefit.

A highlight of this alliance will be a match between the Reds and Benetton Rugby in November 2026 in Treviso, marking their first encounter since 1980. This historic fixture symbolises a shared commitment to building lasting connections between Southern Hemisphere and European rugby.

Don’t miss out on the latest in sports business – Subscribe today to the free Ministry of Sport newsletter and stay ahead of the game. For even more exclusive insights, event tickets, professional development and networking events, become a MoS Member today!.