EXPERIENCE, DEPTH AND FRESH TALENT AS GALLAGHER CHIEFS NAME 2026 SQUAD 

A dynamic blend of seasoned performers and exciting emerging talent direct from Chiefs Country make up the 2026 Gallagher Chiefs Squad.

As Jono Gibbes takes the reins as Head Coach, there is a sense of strong cohesion in the squad. With a mouth-watering 15 capped All Blacks and 13 capped Chiefs returning, plus the addition of 10 uncapped Chiefs, the group reflects the club’s commitment to high performance and regional development. 

“It’s an exciting time for the club. This group combines experience, energy and skill to create a cohesive team. We’ve kept a strong core group of players who know what it means to wear the jersey and added players who complement that stability”. Said Head Coach Jono Gibbes.

New Signings Announced

In the midfield, Hamilton-born Lalakai Foketi returns to his roots and strengthens the centre options, providing experience while trusted All Black Anton Lienert-Brown takes a sabbatical for 2026. Joining Foketi is new signing Kyle Brown, and the returning Daniel Rona, building utility and depth alongside standout All Black Quinn Tupaea, who recently extended his contract with the club. 

The club also announces the signing of Isaac Hutchinson who despite injury will add a real freshness and enthusiasm to the already formidable backfield. Gibbes went on to say, “His key attribute is his work rate – he’s instinctive and continually works hard to help those around him perform at their best”. Both Gibbes and assistant coach Marty Bourke have worked with Hutchinson within the U20’s environment. Stand out Waikato inside back Tepaea Cook-Savage brings a real point of difference to the midfield and provides the group with further options.  

“Our PU’s do a great job of building talent with a lot of young players ready to take that step up to Super level. Many of the players have already been part of the Chiefs environment one way or the other so we have a real togetherness to the squad.” Said Jono Gibbes.

Strength and stability

The Chiefs forward pack remains anchored by an experienced back row. Benet Kumeroa and Taine Kolose have had their contract status’ elevated within the Chiefs environment, having been wider training group members previously. Additional reinforcements come in the way of Jayden Sa and Aisake Vakasiuola from Taranaki and Bay of Plenty respectively. Both bring physicality and long-term potential.   

As the club enters its 30th year, the squad embodies three decades of legacy, pride and a deep connection to its people. The full team will assemble at the end of November, with the Gallagher Chiefs opening their season against the Blues at Eden Park on February 14. Fans will get their first chance to see the team run out at home against long-time rivals the Crusaders on Feb 28 – a repeat of the first Chiefs home game in 1996.

memberships on sale now

Take your seat

in history

join now