Veteran signs on as historic Rugby World Cup beckons

Veteran prop James Slipper has ended speculation on his future by inking a one-year deal with the ACT Brumbies to remain in contention for next year's Rugby World Cup.

The Canberra-based side on Thursday announced that Slipper would be staying on after becoming the most-capped Super Rugby player last season, notching 212 appearances.

It also follows the 36-year-old's decision to come out of Test retirement to play for the Wallabies in July's Nations Championship series, taking his all-time Test tally to 154 matches, second only to Welshman Alun Wyn Jones (170 Tests) in international rugby.

With fellow veterans Bernard Foley (NSW Waratahs) and James O'Connor (Western Force) signing deals with Australian clubs with an eye on making the home World Cup squad, Slipper is sure to be following suit.

The prop's addition to Les Kiss' side would be invaluable considering that he's featured in four World Cups and hasn't ruled out becoming the first Australian to participate in five of the premier competitions.

Only three men - Samoan Brian Lima and Italians Mauro Bergamasco and Sergio Parisse - have played in five tournaments.

"The body still feels good, I'm enjoying my footy, and I feel like I've still got plenty to contribute, both on the field and around the group. As long as that's the case, I'm excited to keep pulling on the Brumbies jersey," Slipper said in a statement.

"I still love coming in every day and competing with this group. We've built something really special at the Brumbies, and I still get a lot of enjoyment out of being part of it."

For the Brumbies, the addition of Slipper is a huge boost to their hopes of claiming a first regional title since 2004, when they beat the Crusaders 47-38 to win the Super 12.

With star Len Ikitau re-joining the side, already boasting eight Wallabies playing in the current Test series against Argentina, the Brumbies will be a force to be reckoned with next season.

Coach Stephen Larkham added that the 36-year-old would bring important leadership to the club along with his on-field contribution, having made 112 tackles, carried for 85 metres and beaten five defenders in the 2026 campaign.

"Slips is still playing outstanding rugby. He was one of our most consistent performers throughout 2026, and he's shown he can continue to make a big impact for this team," the coach said.

"He's become synonymous with the Brumbies through his toughness and consistency, and we're excited they'll get to see him pull on the jersey for another season."