Chris Vui signs four-year extension

The power of a 𝗕𝗲𝗮𝗿, the hands of an 𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗶𝘀𝘁 🎨

4⃣ more years of @ChrisVui_ ✍️ pic.twitter.com/vfYRtIa4Uf

— Bristol Bears 🐻 (@BristolBears) February 10, 2022

The Samoan international – who joined in 2017 – has firmly established himself as one of the best lock forwards in the world.

In five seasons, the 28-year-old has racked up 81 appearances, scoring seven tries.

“Chris is an integral cog in the Bears system on and off the field. He not only brings physicality and leadership as a big man but also an exceptional level of technical ability and tactical understanding to our game,” said Director of Rugby Pat Lam.

“To retain Chris’ services, especially when there has been global interest in his signature, is a huge positive for Bristol Bears. He is rightly regarded as one of the best players in the world in his position and we’ve benefitted from his versatility too, playing in the second row and back row.

“Chris was one of my first signings five years ago when our journey began in the Championship. He has played a massive part in our growth as a club and I’m absolutely delighted he will continue to be a critical part in our road to success over the next four years.”

Vui became the youngest captain in World Rugby when he skippered Samoa in 2017. He has 18 international caps to his name and represented the Pacific Islanders in the 2019 Rugby World Cup.

He added: “I’ve loved my time with the Bears so far. To see Pat [Lam] commit for the long-term and other key teammates sign up has given me great confidence about the future of this club.

“Being part of this Bears Team Culture and playing alongside world class teammates is a privilege. I’d like to pay tribute to the Bristol community who have always made me feel welcome, I’m excited to repay that faith by performing as well as I can in a Bears jersey for years to come.”