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There are few moments in sport that stir such mixed emotions as coming to terms with a beloved player leaving a club with whom so many memories have been created. For all of us at Stade Toulousain, saying farewell to Pita Ahki, whose departure in December was announced this past week, is one of those moments.
Over the years, his journey in red and black has been defined by talent on the field, kindness off it, and a sense of fun that made him more than just a teammate. He became part of the Toulouse family.
Pita arrived at Toulouse in 2018 to strengthen the centre position for us, but what he brought was more than skill and strength. He brought composure, generosity and an unshakeable calm under pressure. We saw him cross the white line time and again with that trademark determination and effortless balance. One of his standout tries came during the Top 14 campaign when, faced with a seemingly impenetrable defence, he produced a subtle step and quick burst to glide over the line. The stadium erupted, and it was one of those moments that perfectly captured his mix of intelligence and instinct.
In European competition, he was equally influential. Under pressure, Pita had a way of reading play that shifted matches. He didn’t just score, he created opportunities for others. His understanding with Romain and Toto gave Toulouse a fluidity in attack that few sides could match. He helped turn defence into counter-attack with one clean offload or a perfectly timed run. Those were the details that made him indispensable to our successes at home and in Europe.
His departure, agreed for December ahead of his move to the Auckland Blues, marks the end of a rich chapter. It is not only the transfer of a player, but the farewell of a presence that brought warmth to every training ground and dressing room.
In training, he was always the one with a smile, the first to encourage a younger player or share a joke when the mood was tense. Off the pitch, he gave his time freely, joining community activities and making supporters feel part of something bigger and that is precious.
There is one story that captures him perfectly. During a training drill with younger squad members, rather than racing ahead, Pita slowed down, gave advice, and helped them through each phase. It was not about showing superiority, but about lifting those around him. That kind of quiet leadership left a mark. His laughter, his ease with people, and his ability to balance professionalism with humanity are what make him so well-respected.
As December approaches, we will look back on his time with deep appreciation. From his role in lifting the Bouclier de Brennus to his influence in Champions Cup matches, Pita has left an imprint that will not fade. The tries will be remembered, but so will the unseen contributions, the clever support lines, the defensive reads that prevented danger before it formed, and the selfless passes that set up others for glory.
Now he moves on to the Auckland Blues, and we wish him every success. There is no doubt he will bring the same intelligence, skill and kindness to his new team. Toulouse loses a player of class and character, but rugby gains the continuation of a story still being written.
Thank you, Pita Ahki, for your commitment, your spirit and your grace on and off the field. You leave our beloved club stronger, and we will always watch your next steps with pride. May your time with the Blues bring you as much joy as you gave here in red and black.
Merci!
