Folau Fainga’a has been granted an early release from Clermont to return home and reignite his Wallabies ambitions ahead of the 2027 World Cup in Australia.
The 30-year-old hooker will leave the French Top 14 side in November to join the Waratahs, where he hopes to put himself back in contention for Test selection.
Fainga’a, who earned the last of his 38 caps against Wales in 2022, signed for Clermont in 2023 and extended his deal last year, but has struggled for game time – featuring for just 34 minutes this season.
“We cannot oppose Folau’s desire to play in a World Cup in his own country and keep him against his will,” Clermont head coach Christophe Urios said in a statement.
“I need all the players in my team to be 100% committed to the project. We understand his decision and accept it.”
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The former Brumbies forward was left out of Clermont’s squad for their 50-27 win over Pau at the weekend, with the French club confirming his departure ahead of the international break.
Folau Fainga’a returns through to 2028 🖋️
Read more – https://t.co/YlmDgJcNdt#Wallabies pic.twitter.com/wg4opYiGOL
— Wallabies (@wallabies) September 21, 2025
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