George Bridge Joins Western Force on Landmark Deal
All Blacks Star Bolsters Australian Super Rugby Side
The Western Force have secured a major coup with the signing of 19-time All Blacks winger George Bridge on a two-year contract, injecting significant international pedigree into the Australian franchise.
A Championship Pedigree Arrives
The 30-year-old flyer arrives in Perth following a successful three-season stint with French club Montpellier, where he also featured in the prestigious European Rugby Champions Cup and Challenge Cup competitions. Bridge brings with him a remarkable trophy cabinet, including four Super Rugby titles and two Super Rugby Aotearoa crowns from his six years with the Crusaders.
His international career highlights include being part of New Zealand’s 2019 Rugby World Cup squad, where he started four matches, scoring crucial tries against South Africa and Ireland. In total, Bridge has amassed 19 Test caps for the All Blacks, crossing the try line 12 times.
Strategic Signing for Force’s Future
Force head coach Simon Cron expressed his delight at securing a player of Bridge’s calibre, emphasizing his professionalism and extensive rugby acumen. George is well known to a number of people on our staff and they can’t speak highly enough of his professionalism, approach to the game and his rugby knowledge.
Cron noted.
“He’s got a massive left foot kick. He can play multiple positions. He’s a brilliant player. An amazing talent. He’ll add to the guys that we have in the squad. We know when we have injuries, it’s important we have depth so we can progress deep into Super Rugby finals. He’s got a huge amount to give. He’s been playing at Montpellier at Top 14 level. I know a few NZ franchises were chasing him hard, but he wanted to join the Force. I know George and his family were keen to come here and make Perth their chosen home, which is what we’re all about. He’ll add a lot to our environment.”
—Simon Cron, Western Force Head Coach
Bridge himself is enthusiastic about the move, citing the club’s positive direction under Cron. I’m excited to be moving to WA and joining the Western Force. They’re a club heading in the right direction and I’m keen to take on the new challenge and contribute to the club’s success.
Bridge stated. He added, “I’ve always loved my time in Perth, and with friends and good connections among the staff and players, it felt like the right fit.”
Bridge is set to arrive in Perth in November, preparing for the commencement of the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific season. His arrival adds significant firepower to the Force backline, aiming to bolster their competitive edge.
Player Profile
George Bridge
- DOB: 1/4/1995
- Place of birth: Gisborne (NZ)
- Height: 186cm
- Position: Wing
Career Snapshot
- International: All Blacks (2018-, 19 caps, 12 tries)
- Club: Montpellier (2022-2025, 48 caps, 11 tries)
- Club: Crusaders (2017-2022, 82 caps, 37 tries)
- Club: Canterbury (NPC) (2016-2022, 44 caps, 22 tries)
The addition of Bridge aligns with the Force’s ambition to climb the Super Rugby Pacific ladder. In the 2024 season, the Force achieved their highest-ever finish in the competition, demonstrating tangible progress. With the experience and proven try-scoring ability of Bridge, the team will be looking to build on this momentum.
Register your interest in a 2026 Western Force Membership
