In a stunning pre-season coup, the NSW Waratahs have raided their fiercest rivals to secure the signature of ACT Brumbies breakdown specialist Luke Reimer.
A Major Blow for the Brumbies
The 25-year-old flanker, renowned as one of Super Rugby Pacific's premier turnover experts, will see out the 2026 season in Canberra before linking with the Waratahs on a two-year contract starting in 2027. Reimer's departure is a significant loss for the Brumbies, who fought to retain him but were ultimately constrained by salary cap pressures.
Reimer finished fifth in the competition for turnovers won last season, making his poaching ability a critical asset. His exit adds to a challenging period for the Brumbies, who are also contending with the departures of Tom Hooper, Noah Lolesio, and Len Ikitau, though Ikitau is slated to return in 2027.
Homecoming and Reunion Drives the Move
The move represents a homecoming for the North Sydney product and reunites him with Waratahs coach Dan McKellar, the man who handed Reimer his Super Rugby debut during his tenure at the Brumbies.
"I will forever be grateful for my time in this great city and will always treasure being part of the Brumbies family," Reimer stated. "I remain fully committed and focused to giving my best for the team in 2026."
Looking ahead, he added, "As I move into this new chapter at the Waratahs, I'm looking forward to the opportunity to reconnect and work with the coach who gave me my first shot at my dream."
Coaches React and Rivalry Heats Up
Brumbies coach Stephen Larkham acknowledged the early announcement allows the squad to focus wholly on the upcoming campaign. "Anyone who knows Luke understands how committed he is to this season," Larkham said, expressing confidence in the team's back-row depth.
Waratahs coach Dan McKellar welcomed the signing of a "proven backrower." "Having worked with Luke before, I know the qualities that he will bring to us," McKellar said. "He's a talented footballer who has an instinct of when to capitalise on crucial moments, particularly at the breakdown."
The transfer is likely to intensify the fierce rivalry between the two sides, with fans getting an early preview when they meet in a pre-season trial at Marist College on February 5. The Brumbies will also face the Western Force in Perth on January 30 before their season opener against the Force on February 14.
While the move may fuel perceptions of Rugby Australia's influence after its takeover of both franchises, Reimer's Sydney roots frame it as a natural return. His arrival in NSW follows that of rising star Lachie Hooper, as the Waratahs look to bolster their squad for the future.
