Jamie Ritchie signs for Glasgow Warriors after injury-hit season at Perpignan

Glasgow Warriors have signed former Scotland captain Jamie Ritchie on a two-year deal, ending weeks of speculation over the 29-year-old’s future following his departure from Perpignan. The 63-cap flanker will join Franco Smith’s squad at Scotstoun ahead of the 2026/27 campaign.

Ritchie spent 11 years and 133 appearances at Edinburgh before moving to the Top 14 last summer, but his single season in France was severely disrupted by injury. He managed only 13 appearances for Perpignan and was ruled out for the remainder of the current campaign after suffering a setback against Clermont last month.

The signing reunites Ritchie with several Scotland team-mates already at Scotstoun, including Rory Darge and Matt Fagerson, and helps Glasgow offset notable departures from their back-row. Scotland No.8 Jack Dempsey is among those leaving the club this summer, having agreed a move to Japan.

Ritchie previously cited family considerations as central to his decision to return home, calling it a “really difficult decision” after enjoying life in the south of France.

“I’m really looking forward to joining the Warriors,” Ritchie said. “It’s a club for which I’ve always had a lot of respect, and I can’t wait to get started. Some of my best mates are there, so I’ve had a good idea of what the place is like for a while. They talk about how it pushes them to be better players, but also how close they all are off the field. That means a lot to me.”

Ritchie also praised the direction Smith has given the club. “Franco has done a brilliant job. You only have to look at how competitive they’ve been over the last few years to see that, and I really enjoy the way they approach the game. It’s a style that suits me and I’m excited to be a part of it.”

Head coach Franco Smith welcomed the addition. “His ability to play across the back-row will be a real asset to our squad, as will the experience he brings following his time in France, in the URC and with Scotland,” Smith said.