Wales winger Louis Rees-Zammit set to depart Bristol Bears already

Yet, the winger’s stay at Ashton Gate could be far shorter than fans hope — with reports confirming he is a prime target for lucrative approaches from the emerging R360 rugby league.

Rees-Zammit’s journey away from union began in March 2024 when he joined the NFL’s International Player Pathway Program. He featured for both the Kansas City Chiefs and Jacksonville Jaguars before deciding to return to his roots.

Bristol secured his signature for the 2025/26 season, and the former Wales international wasted no time in making an impact, racing in a 60-metre try in the Bears’ victory over Leicester Tigers last weekend .

But Bristol boss Pat Lam has admitted there is little guarantee Rees-Zammit will stay beyond this year.

He told Rugby Pass: “I know a few of the guys have been approached, and that is their business. All we can control is who is here now. Loyalty in rugby went out when it became professional. We are loyal to players who sign up here,”

R360, backed by a multi-billion-dollar investment, is aggressively chasing marquee players to anchor its new league.

Rees-Zammit, with his speed, profile, and marketability, is widely regarded as one of their prime targets. Sources suggest the franchise is prepared to offer him a contract far beyond anything available in the Gallagher Prem.

For Bristol, this creates a dilemma. While Rees-Zammit’s debut season promises to be electrifying, the likelihood of him being lured away for a massive payday after just one season now hangs over Ashton Gate. Lam insists the club is focused on the here and now, but admits the reality of modern professional rugby is that player movement at the highest level is unavoidable.

For Rees-Zammit, the question is whether his time at Bristol be a long-term move or simply a showcase season before a big-money exit to R360 next summer.

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