Former Springbok Ruan Pienaar will not be playing with Top 14 outfit Montpellier next season.

The club released a statement yesterday that read:

“After being affected by a family drama during the season, Ruan Pienaar announced his decision to end his contract at the end of the 2018/2019 season. A decision understood and accepted by Montpellier Hérault Rugby, which releases the player one year before the end of his contract.”

Ruan Pienaar:

“I want to thank my teammates with whom I have played for the past two seasons and all the fans. I wish the club every success for years to come. “

“We thank Ruan for the professionalism he has shown during his two seasons with the MHR and wish him all the best.

Montpellier Hérault Rugby.”

Pienaar (35) has not played since February. His sister was tragically killed in a road traffic accident in South Africa and he was granted 6 weeks of compassionate leave to return to his family in South Africa.

Since his return he has not lined out for MHR and had been linked with a move away from the club.

It’s been well documented that his family did not settle well in France and quickly returned to Belfast where Pienaar spent several seasons with Irish Province Ulster.

Pienaar was blocked from signing an extension with Ulster by the IRFU and ultimately forced to move away despite previously turning down lucrative contracts offers in France to remain with Ulster.

Pienaar’s next move is unclear. He had previously been linked with a move to the Pro14 side , Toyota Cheetahs but has also been on record saying he would love to return to Belfast. A playing opportunity would most likely be blocked again by the IFRU but at 35, Pienaar could be looking into the next stage of his career and be open to a coaching position.

We’re sure he’ll not be short of offers.