Junior Wallabies enforcer returns ‘home’ after signing with Reds

Junior Wallabies prop Massimo De Lutiis will return “home” to Queensland next season after signing a deal with the Reds ahead of the 2024 Super Rugby Pacific campaign.

Having represented Australia at the World Rugby U20 Championships in South Africa, De Lutiis has been lured back to the Sunshine State after two seasons with the Brumbies and Canberra Royals.

While the front-rower was born in Sydney, De Lutiis showcased his potential during a successful high school career in Queensland’s prestigious GPS competition with The Southport School.

De Lutiis was also part of the Reds Junior Academy and the Queensland U18s side - although, they didn't take the field due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Standing at 188cm tall and weighing 124kgs, De Lutiis is set to join a promising squad of forwards that includes the likes of Fraser McReight, Liam Wright and Harry Wilson.

“We’re glad Massimo has chosen to join us back in his home state,” Reds head coach Les Kiss said.

“He’s a player with great promise and will bring plenty to our group of props at Ballymore moving forward.”

In another boost for the Reds, Rugby World Cup-bound prop Peni Ravai has also re-signed with the club until the end of next season.

Ravai, who played 14 matches for the Reds in 2023, was named in the Flying Fijians’ World Cup squad earlier this week.

“I’ve loved my time with the Reds so far,” Ravai said in a statement. “It’s a great group of players and staff, and I’m looking forward to working in a new world-class facility at Ballymore next season.

“I enjoy working with the young front rowers at the club and hope I can help them with my experience.”