Rees-Zammit signs long-term deal with Bristol Bears

Louis Rees-Zammit, the 24-year-old Welsh rugby international, has signed a new long-term contract with Bristol Bears, securing his future at the Gallagher Premiership club just months after returning from an unsuccessful bid to play in the NFL.

The announcement, made on Thursday, ends speculation linking Rees-Zammit to R360, a proposed breakaway rugby league competition originally slated for launch in autumn 2026 but now delayed until 2028. Rees-Zammit joined Bristol in August on a one-year deal following an 18-month stint in American football, during which he trained with the Kansas City Chiefs and Jacksonville Jaguars but did not appear in any NFL games. He returned to rugby in July, stating at the time that he felt he was wasting his talent in the United States.

Since arriving at Ashton Gate, Rees-Zammit has made an immediate impact, scoring six tries in eight appearances for Pat Lam's side. Versatile enough to play on the wing or at fullback, he showcased his explosive pace by clocking 23.57 miles per hour in the 82nd minute of his home debut against Leicester Tigers, racing clear for his first try on home soil. His performances have reestablished him as one of rugby union's...