Connacht have signed loose-head prop Francois van Wyk from reigning Prem champions Bath for the 2026-27 season.
The 34-year-old has played 41 times for Bath since joining in 2024 and has been one of their key impact players, mostly appearing from the bench, as they won the league title, European Challenge Cup and Prem Rugby Cup last season.
Previously, Van Wyk spent three years with Leicester Tigers and four at Northampton Saints, while he has also played for Western Force in Australia.
“The opportunity of experiencing a new country, in a new league, is something that appeals to me at this stage of my career,” Van Wyk said.
“From my discussions with everyone in Connacht I’m in no doubt that I can make a positive impact to the playing group and help bring success to the west of Ireland.”
Connacht head coach Stuart Lancaster said the South African can be a “real asset” to the squad.
“He’s an excellent scrummager, brings huge physicality whenever he plays, and comes with a wealth of experience at the highest level of Northern hemisphere rugby,” Lancaster said.
