Stars In Paris: Racing 92's History Of Huge Rugby Deals
Stars In Paris: Racing 92's History Of Huge Rugby Deals
Racing 92’s history of signing rugby’s biggest stars includes Carter, Sexton, Kolisi and Farrell. Savea could be next.
Racing 92 has become synonymous with ambition, star power and deep pockets.
In 2013, they lured Jonny Sexton away from Leinster, making him one of the highest-paid players in Europe at the time on about 52,000 euros per month ($57,000).
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Two years later, Dan Carter arrived in Paris fresh from guiding New Zealand to a World Cup title. Carter’s contract, worth 1.5 million euros per season (about $1.65 million), made him the sport’s richest player and brought Racing a Top 14 championship in 2016.
The club kept spending. Scotland fly half Finn Russell became their creative fulcrum in 2018, bringing flair and precision until his move to Bath on a deal worth around 1 million pounds ($1.27 million). Siya Kolisi arrived in 2023 on a record South African transfer fee of 17 million rand (about $935,000), though his Paris stint lasted just a season.
In 2024, Racing announced the marquee signing of Owen Farrell, with his contract reported at 1.2 million pounds ($1.52 million). Farrell has since returned to Saracens.
The current squad reflects that same strategy. International stars such as Gaël Fickou, Josua Tuisova, Jonny Hill, Taniela Tupou and Joseph Manu give Racing one of the most global rosters in the Top 14.
For Racing’s ownership, the model has always been clear: attract superstars, fill Paris La Défense Arena, and keep the club in the Champions Cup conversation. That history makes the pursuit of Ardie Savea feel like the next natural step.
Racing 92’s Biggest Signings
- Jonny Sexton (2013) — from Leinster, one of Europe’s highest salaries at the time (52,000 euros/month ≈ $57,000)
- Dan Carter (2015) — All Blacks legend, 1.5 million euros per season (≈ $1.65 million)
- Finn Russell (2018) — Scotland fly half, about 1 million pounds per season (≈ $1.27 million)
- Siya Kolisi (2023) — South Africa captain, 17 million rand release fee (≈ $935,000)
- Owen Farrell (2024) — England fly half, 1.2 million pounds per season (≈ $1.52 million), now back at Saracens
- Rumored: Ardie Savea (post-2027) — would surpass all previous deals
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