Sam Matavesi in action against the RAF Credit Alligin Photography date 09042022.jpg — Sam Matavesi is one of the Navy's leading rugby stars getting success in thee civilian game.

Rugby Union

Navy's Sam Matavesi leaves Northampton Saints with move to top French team expected

Royal Navy rugby union star Sam Matavesi has left Premiership champions Northampton Saints and is expected to sign for French top 14 team Lyon.

Matavesi capped off a successful five-year spell at Saints by becoming the first military player to win the Premiership trophy at Twickenham last month.

Matevesi scored 13 tries and played 89 times during his time at Northampton after moving from Cornish Pirates in 2019.

The Royal Navy star plays for Fiji on the international scene and appeared at the World Cup last year.

In a statement, Matavesi alluded to a new challenge in France and thanked Northampton for a hugely successful five years.

@SaintsRugby thank you for allowing me & my family the opportunity to chase a new challenge something that was needed personally. I’ve loved every minute of the past 5 seasons, and wish you every success going forward. From a pirate to a saint. #2023 👞 pic.twitter.com/dfzK4ASDf2
— Samuel Matavesi (@samuelmatavesi7) June 26, 2024

Elsewhere, Matavesi's Navy teammate Jordan Gott has also moved to a French team with Union Sportive Marmandaise while hooker Rhys Williams has signed on to Plymouth Albion after leaving Cornish Pirates.

Royal Marine Joshua Williams is also on the move as he's signed with Doncaster Knights.