Wallabies regular Len Ikitau joins Exeter chiefs for 2025-26 in a major premiership signing

Exeter Chiefs have pulled off a major coup ahead of the 2025-26 campaign, securing the signature of Australia centre Len Ikitau from Super Rugby side ACT Brumbies.

Ikitau, capped 39 times by the Wallabies since his debut in 2021, has been a near ever-present in the national set-up, starting all but one of those Tests. The 26-year-old brings both experience and flair to Sandy Park, where he’s expected to be a key figure as Exeter reshuffle their midfield options.

Whispers of a potential move surfaced as early as February, with director of rugby Rob Baxter publicly praising Ikitau as a player he’d “love” to bring to Devon. Now, it’s official.

“My family considers us very lucky to get to have this experience abroad with a club that is so iconic and respected,” Ikitau said, clearly relishing the opportunity.

He added that discussions with Baxter cemented his decision, particularly the club’s willingness to work with Rugby Australia to support his long-term growth. “Rob and the coaching staff have challenged me to take the next step as an on-field leader to drive success for the club,” he said.

The Australian international will arrive following the conclusion of the Super Rugby season and the high-profile British and Irish Lions series against Australia—where Ikitau is widely expected to feature.

Ikitau’s move comes at a perfect time for the Chiefs, who will lose Wales international Joe Hawkins to Scarlets at the end of the current campaign. Filling that void, Ikitau brings a blend of physicality, intelligence, and defensive grit that has earned him acclaim in both hemispheres.

Baxter is confident that the Wallabies centre can elevate the team to new heights.

“He’s playing very well, he’s very keen to experience something else,” Baxter told BBC Radio Devon. “He’s talked a lot with the Australians who’ve been here at Exeter—they’ve all said he’ll love it if he throws himself into it.”

The move also continues a growing Australian influence at Sandy Park. Ikitau becomes the third Wallaby to commit to the Chiefs for next season, joining hooker Julian Heaven and back-rower Tom Hooper in a trio of exciting southern hemisphere signings.

Baxter believes Ikitau has the potential to be something “very special” in the Premiership.

“Our job is to create a team and an environment that lets all the individuals shine at what they’re good at,” he said. “And if we can do that with Len, we could see something really special.”

Exeter’s fans will be eager to welcome their latest star, and there’s little doubt the club has landed one of the most high-profile signings of the off-season. With his Wallabies credentials and hunger to grow as a leader, Ikitau could well become a cornerstone of Baxter’s evolving squad.

The Chiefs are clearly building for a big future—and with Len Ikitau anchoring their midfield, they may just be one step closer to reclaiming their place among English rugby’s elite.