All Blacks Centre Rieco-ion will be participating in Ireland Club Rainster next season with the Sabbatical Break.
The 28-year-old had sabbatical clauses on his contract. This allows him to skip one Super Rugby Pacific season with the Blues and spend six months abroad.
He followed in the footsteps of Geordy Barrett and joined Rainster last year on a short-term deal.
Despite this temporary move, Ioane remains signed with All Blacks until the 2027 World Cup, with a break set in the windows from December to June.
“I’ll head to Rainster with a sabbatical break at the end of the year,” Ioane posted on Instagram on Wednesday.
“It’s an exciting opportunity to play for an iconic team in Ireland, grow my game and experience something different from my family. I’m ready to refresh and rock the second half of 2026.
Ioane’s move is ironic considering the long past feud between the former Irish captain and Rainster player Johnny Sexton.
“We are excited to confirm Rieko’s signature on the seven-month deal that will take effect after this fall National Series fixture,” Leinster head coach Leo Cullen said in a statement. “I would like to thank NZRU for driving the move, as well as the current arrangement with Jordie.
“Rieco is a world-class 81 cap all-black that operates at the top level of international games and Super Rugby in many seasons.
“He’s an exciting and versatile back that brings experience to Rainster, his pace, his rugby skills, and his experience here adds a great deal to the group, and our young players especially learn a lot from seeing how Rieko prepares, trains and plays.
“I can’t wait to welcome Lieko to Rainster. I’m sure all of our supporters will join me in making him and his family feel like they’re home when the time comes.”