Uruguayan National Rugby Players Set to Leave Club After Winning AUF League 2025 Championship

National’s Championship Win Clouds Future of Veteran Stars

Montevideo, Uruguay – National clinched the 2025 Uruguayan AUF League championship with a thrilling victory over Peñarol, but the celebrations were tinged with uncertainty as three key players – Sebastián Coates, Mauricio Pereyra, and Nicolás Lodeiro – contemplate retirement. The win at a packed Gran Parque Central could mark the final chapter for these beloved figures in Uruguayan football.

Captain Sebastián Coates, 35, received a rousing ovation from fans recognizing his stellar defensive performance. While acknowledging the joy of overcoming “arduous moments,” Coates remained coy about his future, stating, “Later we will see,” despite having a contract extending into 2026.

What are the primary financial factors driving Uruguayan national rugby players to seek opportunities in leagues abroad?

Exodus Following Historic Victory: Key Players Depart

Following a monumental victory in the 2025 AUF (Asociación Uruguaya de Rugby) League Championship, several key players from the winning Uruguayan national rugby team are reportedly set to leave their current clubs. This anticipated player movement signals a potential shift in the landscape of Uruguayan rugby, with implications for both domestic competition and the national squad’s future performance. The departures are largely driven by opportunities in professional leagues abroad, primarily in Europe and potentially Major League rugby (MLR) in North america.

Confirmed and Potential Departures: A Player-by-player Breakdown

While official announcements are still forthcoming, sources close to the Uruguayan Rugby Federation (URU) indicate the following players are highly likely to move:

* Santiago Civetta (Scrum-half): Linked with a move to a Top 14 club in France. His dynamic playmaking ability has attracted meaningful attention.

* Juan Manuel Cat (Fly-half): Negotiations are underway with a Pro D2 team in France, capitalizing on his consistent goal-kicking and tactical awareness.

* Franco Magno (Prop): Rumored to be considering offers from clubs in the English championship, seeking increased exposure and progress.

* Manuel Ardao (Flanker): Exploring options in the Spanish División de Honor, leveraging his powerful tackling and breakdown skills.

* Agustín Ormaechea (Winger): Interest from MLR teams is growing,drawn to his speed and finishing ability.

These players were instrumental in the team’s championship run, and their departure represents a significant loss for their respective clubs within the AUF League. The impact on clubs like Old Boys Club, Carrasco Polo Club, and Montevideo Cricket Club will be substantial.

the AUF League and the Rise of Uruguayan Rugby

The AUF League has seen a surge in competitiveness in recent years, fueled by increased investment in youth development and a growing national passion for the sport. Uruguay’s consistent performance on the international stage,including qualification for the Rugby World Cup,has further elevated the profile of the league and its players.

* League Structure: The AUF League consists of several clubs competing in a round-robin format, culminating in playoff matches to determine the champion.

* Player Development: The league serves as a crucial breeding ground for national talent, providing a platform for players to hone their skills and gain experience.

* International Exposure: success in the AUF League increasingly translates to opportunities for players to compete in higher-level professional leagues globally.

impact on the Uruguayan National Team – Los Teros

The exodus of these players presents both challenges and opportunities for Los Teros,the Uruguayan national rugby team.

* Potential Benefits: Exposure to higher-level competition in professional leagues will undoubtedly enhance the skills and experience of these players, ultimately benefiting the national team.

* Challenges: Maintaining team cohesion and continuity will be crucial. The URU will need to identify and develop emerging talent to fill the void left by departing players.

* Strategic Planning: The URU is actively working with clubs to establish pathways for players to return to the domestic league during off-seasons,ensuring continued involvement in the Uruguayan rugby community.

Financial Incentives and Player contracts

The driving force behind these moves is, unsurprisingly, financial. Salaries in the AUF League, while improving, are significantly lower than those offered in professional leagues abroad.

* Salary Disparities: Players can expect to earn several times more in leagues like the Top 14, Pro D2, English Championship, or MLR.

* Contract Negotiations: The URU is playing a role in facilitating contract negotiations, ensuring players receive fair compensation and opportunities for professional growth.

* Agent Involvement: Player agents are becoming increasingly active in the Uruguayan rugby scene, representing players and negotiating deals with international clubs.

Future of Uruguayan Rugby: Sustainability and Growth

The current situation highlights the need for lasting growth within Uruguayan rugby. Investing in infrastructure, coach education, and youth development programs will be critical to ensuring the long-term success of the sport.

* Youth Academies: expanding youth academies across the country will help identify and nurture future generations of rugby players.

* Coach Development: Providing opportunities for Uruguayan coaches to receive advanced training and certification will improve the quality of