Get ready for a groundbreaking moment in rugby history! The Queensland Reds are set to embark on a historic tour of Italy, marking their first visit in nearly half a century, thanks to a bold collaboration with Benetton Rugby and the Italian Rugby Federation. But here’s where it gets even more exciting: this isn’t just about two matches—it’s about forging international pathways, cultural exchanges, and pushing the boundaries of player development.
In November, the Reds will face an Italy XV during the weekend of November 20, followed by a clash against their partners, Benetton Rugby, a week later. Both games will take place at the iconic Stadio Monigo in Treviso, Benetton’s home ground. This tour isn’t just a series of matches; it’s a testament to the Queensland Rugby Union’s (QRU) commitment to expanding its players’ horizons and fostering adaptability on the global stage.
And this is the part most people miss: the roots of this partnership trace back to July 2025, when Reds players John Bryant, Louis Werchon, and Richie Asiata were seconded to Benetton Rugby for training and gameplay after the Super Rugby Pacific season. This move paid off spectacularly—Werchon, for instance, gained invaluable experience from seven matches in the United Rugby Championship, which sharpened his skills for his return to the Reds’ lineup against the NSW Waratahs in Sydney.
Sam Cordingley, Queensland Reds’ General Manager of High Performance, couldn’t hide his enthusiasm. “Announcing these matches in Treviso is a massive step forward,” he said. “Rugby thrives on its international flavor, and at QRU, we’re fully embracing that. Sending our players to Italy wasn’t just about rugby; it was about exposing them to new cultures, perspectives, and challenges. We’re incredibly grateful to Benetton Rugby and the Italian Rugby Federation for making this possible.”
But here’s where it gets controversial: while this partnership is celebrated as a win-win for both sides, some critics argue that such collaborations could dilute the identity of local teams. Is this the future of rugby, or are we risking losing the essence of what makes each club unique? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments.
Benetton Rugby’s global vision aligns seamlessly with the Italian Rugby Federation’s strategy to strengthen their national team through high-level fixtures. The match against Italy XV, for instance, is a key part of developing Italy’s second national team. This joint initiative underscores a shared commitment to long-term, structured international relationships that deliver technical, sporting, and cultural benefits.
As the rugby world watches, this tour isn’t just about the games—it’s about the stories, the growth, and the questions it raises. What does this mean for the future of international rugby collaborations? Are we on the brink of a new era, or is this just a fleeting experiment? Let us know what you think—this conversation is far from over.
