Billy Vunipola's first impression of his new life at Montpellier

Former England international Billy Vunipola has given a first impression of his new life in Montpellier. The 31-year-old, who was at Saracens from 2013 to 2024, has quit the Gallagher Premiership for the Top 14 for the next few years and after beginning pre-season on July 17, he has now shared his thoughts on his first couple of weeks in the south of France. 

Speaking at his first media briefing since joining the club that finished 13th in the 2023/24 Top 14, Vunipola insisted his move across the Channel was about the business of winning and not money. 

“It’s a new life choice, a new club, but I didn’t come to collect my salary, I want to give the best for this club,” said the Rugby World Cup 2019 finalist in a report published by L’Equipe. 

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“I met Bernard (Laporte, the director of rugby), the president (Mohed) Altrad last week and I understood their expectations. They want the club to be at the top. I want to help them in this project and get back into shape.

“It is weird to start a season away from Saracens. I spent a lot of years there, won titles (five English Championships and three European Cups) but I felt it was the right time to move on. 

“It wasn’t an easy choice to leave England. I knew I would no longer be eligible for selection, there is the language barrier, a new life far from the comfort of Saracens to which I had become accustomed, a new culture but once I made the decision, I was very happy and I got fully involved.

“It’s hot, so hot. I have never experienced a preparation in such heat. My wife and son think we are just here for the summer holidays but I can assure them that it’s anything but a holiday,” he chuckled. 

Highlighted in Vunipola’s calendar for the season ahead is the October 6 Montpellier versus Vannes fixture, the game where he could pack down against older brother Mako as he has also made the switch from the Premiership to Top 14.

“We already faced each other once when I played for Wasps (2011-2013) and the following week, I signed for Saracens. It’s going to be a great time, provided we win!”