Jamie Ritchie's Scotland return is finally confirmed

Glasgow Warriors have confirmed the signing of former Scotland captain Jamie Ritchie, ending weeks of speculation over the flanker’s future after his departure from Perpignan was announced.

The 63-cap international will return to Scotland after a single season in the Top 14, joining Franco Smith’s side ahead of the 2026/27 campaign. The 29-year-old is reportedly set to make the move to Scotstoun on a two-year deal after deciding to cut short his stay in France.

Ritchie spent 11 years with Edinburgh before leaving for Perpignan last summer, making 133 appearances. His time in France has been disrupted by injury, only managing 13 appearances in total, with the back-row ruled out for the remainder of the season last month after suffering a setback against Clermont.

The move reunites Ritchie with a host of Scotland team-mates, including Rory Darge and Matt Fagerson, while helping offset some significant departures from Glasgow’s back-row stocks. Scotland No.8 Jack Dempsey is among those leaving Scotstoun this summer after agreeing a move to Japan.

Ritchie previously said upon announcing his Perpignan exit that family considerations were central to his decision to return home, having described it as a “really difficult decision” after enjoying life in the south of France.

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6 Jun 26

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“I’m really looking forward to joining the Warriors,” the flanker 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. You want to be somewhere you feel part of something, and Glasgow genuinely has that.

“Franco has done a brilliant job with the club. 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.

“I obviously know the Scotstoun crowd well enough from being on the other side of things – hopefully I’ll be getting a slightly warmer reception this time around!

“Ultimately, I just want to come in, work hard, and play my best rugby for this club. I’m really looking forward to representing Glasgow and giving everything I’ve got.”

Head coach Franco Smith added: “We are pleased to be able to add a player of Jamie’s calibre to our playing group ahead of next season, as we look to build upon the foundations we have already created at Scotstoun.

“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.”