Omar Hasan, a former prop for Argentina’s national rugby team Los Pumas, has returned to his hometown of Tucumán after an eight-year absence, according to reports from local media outlet LA GACETA. The return marks a reconnection with the province where his rugby career began, following a period spent abroad after the 2007 Rugby World Cup.
Hasan was a key member of the Argentine squad that achieved a historic third-place finish at the 2007 World Cup in France, scoring a try in the bronze medal match against the host nation. He began his rugby journey at Natación Senior in Tucumán, playing for the club from 1990 to 1996, and later captained the provincial selection from 1991 to 1997. He also represented Argentina’s university team in 1992 and 1996.
The prop’s international career spanned over a decade, earning 65 caps for Argentina between 1995 and 2007. His debut for the national team came on March 4, 1995, in a Pan-American Championship match against Uruguay, where he also scored a try. He subsequently played professionally for clubs in Wellington, Australia’s Brumbies, Agen in France, and finally Stade Toulousain, where he concluded his playing career.
Hasan’s return to Tucumán was not a planned or publicized event, but rather a personal decision to reconnect with family and friends. He had last visited Argentina just before the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, with a planned trip to Tucumán subsequently postponed. He described his return as fulfilling a long-held desire to be closer to his roots.
Beyond his rugby career, Hasan has pursued other interests, including singing and writing. A video posted on YouTube shows Hasan’s return to Tucumán, highlighting his continued connection to the region. He has indicated a desire to contribute to the local community and share his experiences with younger generations.