Reckless risk-taking or simply the joy of living out his passion? Opinions are split this Friday, after the announcement of Virimi Vakatawa’s return to the pitch. The former France centre (33, 31 caps) has signed for the Fijian Drua, the Fiji franchise that plays in Super Rugby Pacific.

“I’m very grateful to be able, thanks to what I’ve been through, to help these young men and share with them my experience in France and my playing career,” explained the man born in Rangiora (New Zealand). He will link up again with the young Fijian centre he took under his wing at Racing 92: Inia Tabuavou.

“I know the future of Fijian rugby rests on this team ; I’ve watched them, I’ve trained with them, and I know they will go far in their careers,” concluded the former Racing man.

The Uini Atonio case

Virimi Vatakawa’s return to competition stirs mixed feelings among lovers of the game. Pleasure, first of all, at seeing a magician come back to the pitch, electrifying grounds with his footwork and his offloads.

His speed and power have not changed. His qualities satisfied the Drua staff during pre-season training. But his comeback also raises a few concerns.

The player’s career took a sad turn in September 2022, when a progressive heart abnormality was detected. Barred from playing in France, Vakatawa bounced back superbly at Bristol, in England, where more flexible rules allowed him to play.

Above all, the timing raises questions. While French giant Uini Atonio has to end his career on the spot following a cardiac incident, Virimi Vatakawa is going to play again at the top level. And that despite a heart condition detected a few seasons ago. Often criticised, is France in fact the only country protecting players sufficiently against this kind of incident? Possibly.

More recently, the 2018 and 2020 Champions Cup finalist took part in Fiji’s provincial championship with the Naitasiri side in the Skipper Cup. Bringing local spectators to their feet, delighted to see again the prodigy “pinched” by France. One thing is certain: his return to competition should arouse plenty of curiosity.