James O'Connor returns to Western Force on one-year contract

Veteran Wallaby James O'Connor has signed a one-year contract with the Western Force, marking a return to the Super Rugby club where he began his professional career nearly two decades ago. The 36-year-old playmaker confirmed the deal on Wednesday, September 2, 2026, stating his primary goal is to force his way into the Australian squad for the 2027 Rugby World Cup, which will be hosted in Australia. O'Connor first rose to prominence with the Force, debuting as a 17-year-old in 2008 and becoming the youngest player in Super Rugby history at the time. He made 39 appearances for the Perth-based side before departing in 2011. His return completes what he describes as a "full-circle moment." "Perth and the Force is where it all began for me as a 17-year-old, so this feels almost fated to find myself back here at this stage in my career," O'Connor said. The signing comes after O'Connor spent the 2025 season with English Premiership club Leicester Tigers. He brings extensive experience from a career that includes stints with the Melbourne Rebels, Queensland Reds, and Crusaders, with whom he won the Super Rugby Pacific title last year.