Clermont, France – New Zealand rugby international Etene Nanai-Seturo has agreed to a three-year deal with ASM Clermont Auvergne, the Top 14 club announced Sunday. The versatile back will join the French side beginning July 1, 2026 and remain with the club through 2029.
The move marks a significant addition to Clermont’s roster as they prepare for the upcoming seasons. Nanai-Seturo, 26, currently plays for the Chiefs in Super Rugby and has also represented the All Blacks XV. He brings a dynamic skillset, capable of playing both wing and fullback, and is expected to bolster Clermont’s attacking options.
“He’s a player we’ve been following for a little even as, and we are very happy to witness his commitment materialize with us for the next few seasons,” said Clermont head coach Christophe Urios in a club statement. The coach highlighted Nanai-Seturo’s ability to “attack spaces and bring a lot of speed and dynamism” to the team’s backline.
Nanai-Seturo’s arrival continues a trend of Kiwi players opting for opportunities in the French Top 14. He will link up with fellow New Zealanders Harry Plummer and AJ Lam at Clermont. Notably, he will also reunite with former Chiefs teammate Pita Gus Sowakula, who already plays for the club. This growing presence of Southern Hemisphere talent in the Top 14 is reshaping the competitive landscape of European rugby.
The Chiefs fullback has made 64 appearances for his current team since his debut in 2019, according to Wikipedia. He also has experience on the international sevens stage, having represented New Zealand at the 2021 Olympic Games in Tokyo. His versatility and proven ability at both club and international levels make him a valuable asset for Clermont.
Adding another layer to the connection, Nanai-Seturo has family ties to the club. His cousin, Tim Nanaï-Seturo, previously played for Clermont between 2018 and 2021. This familial link may ease his transition to the new league and environment.
The decision by Nanai-Seturo to move to France follows similar moves by other Hurricanes and Blues players, including Pouri Rakete-Stones, Isaia Walker-Leawere, Fehi Fineanganofo, Dalton Papali’i, and Hoskins Sotutu. This exodus of talent from New Zealand rugby underscores the increasing appeal of the financial opportunities and competitive challenges offered by European leagues.
For Clermont, securing Nanai-Seturo represents a strategic investment in their future. The club has been actively rebuilding under Urios, and the addition of a player with Nanai-Seturo’s attributes is expected to accelerate that process. The Top 14 is known for its physicality and tactical complexity, and Nanai-Seturo’s speed and attacking prowess will be crucial as Clermont aims to compete for the league title.
Nanai-Seturo’s move to Clermont is set to take place at the conclusion of the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific campaign. Fans in Clermont will be eagerly anticipating his arrival, hoping he can replicate his success from New Zealand on French soil. The club will be looking to build a formidable backline around his talents, and his presence is sure to generate excitement among supporters.
The next confirmed action for Nanai-Seturo will be his continued participation in the Super Rugby Pacific season with the Chiefs. Fans can follow updates on his progress and the Chiefs’ performance through the team’s official website and social media channels.
What are your thoughts on Nanai-Seturo’s move to Clermont? Share your opinions in the comments below.
