Tom Hooper extends Exeter Chiefs contract ahead of return to Australia

Tom Hooper, the flanker for Exeter Chiefs, extended his contract with the club until the summer of 2028, but he will return to Australia afterward. As part of his agreement, the 25-year-old is set to join the Queensland Reds prior to the commencement of the 2029 Super Rugby Pacific season. This arrangement allows him to remain in Australia until 2030.

Hooper had a remarkable first season in England, playing a crucial role in helping the Chiefs reach the Premiership final, where they finished third in the league. He also participated in the European Challenge Cup semi-finals, where Exeter was defeated by Ulster. Previously, Hooper was contracted with Exeter until the end of the 2026-27 season, but he expressed to BBC Sport in March his openness to an extended stay.

"I’m really happy to have my long-term future secured with a move back to Australia in the not-too-distant future,” Hooper stated. "I’m thoroughly enjoying my time in Exeter and am focused on continuing to improve my game there before returning to Australia and linking up with Queensland. In the short-term, my priority is to continue working hard with the Wallabies where I’m incredibly hungry to contribute on and off the field as we continue to build our game as a group."

Hooper moved to Exeter from the ACT Brumbies in Super Rugby Pacific following last summer’s Rugby Championship, alongside his fellow Australian Len Ikitau. While Ikitau has returned to Australia ahead of next year’s Rugby World Cup, Hooper’s new contract emphasizes his confidence of being selected for the Wallabies despite playing in Europe. This deal also guarantees his commitment to domestic rugby in Australia post-World Cup.

Since making his debut against South Africa in 2023, Hooper has earned 23 caps for Australia and completed 23 matches for Exeter during his inaugural season, culminating in their run to the Premiership final at Twickenham. Rugby Australia’s high-performance director, Peter Horne, commented on Hooper’s return to Australian rugby, describing it as a significant advantage for supporters. "He’s someone who works incredibly hard on his craft and has already shown the impact he can have at the highest level.”