Tonga Kofe's stay at Leicester comes to an abrupt end

After just three games for Leicester, USA international prop Tonga Kofe has returned to America with immediate effect to join Major League Rugby side California Legion.

The 143kg tight-head made his debut for the club in a 10-8 PREM Rugby Cup win away to Newcastle Red Bulls at the end of October, a game that Tigers boss Geoff Parling recently described as one of the worst matches he has ever watched.

The 30-year-old played Leicester’s next Cup game at home to Northampton but has only appeared once since November, in the home win over Newcastle at the start of February.

“After receiving a call from Dave Dennis at the California Legion we were happy to facilitate what should be a great move for Tonga and his family,” said Parling.

“It was a huge step for him to come to the UK and he’s been fantastic to work with, eager to learn and shown great characteristics as a person.

“He leaves after representing Tigers and getting to run out at Mattioli Woods Welford Road which is an incredible achievement only two years after first playing our game.”

Kofe said: “I loved my time with Tigers. It was a brilliant group of boys to be around and a great group of fans show up at every game.”

“I got to witness first hand at what being a Tiger means and why this club is known all around the world.”

Kofe won six caps for the Eagles in 2025 after switching to rugby from American Football.