Max Jorgensen locks down future with Australian Rugby, signs record-tying extension

Thu, Jan 29, 2026, 11:00 PM
Nathan Williamson
by Nathan Williamson

NSW Waratahs and Wallabies outside back Max Jorgensen has locked his long-term future down with Australian Rugby.

Jorgensen has signed a five-year deal, committing him to the 2027 and 2031 Rugby World Cups.

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Within that deal, the 21-year-old will have the option to take sabbaticals in 2028 and 2030 and is just the third (Michael Hooper and Lote Tuqiri) to sign an extension this long to Australian Rugby.

"I grew up in Sydney and played my junior rugby for the Balmain Wolves and went to school around the corner at Joey’s - it’s home for me and to be able to represent my state in the blue jersey means a lot to me and my family," he said in a statement.

“Becoming a Wallaby has been the highlight of my career so far and I’m desperate to be part of the home Rugby World Cup next year and bring success to all our supporters.

“I know have a lot left in me as a player and as a person and want to thank those who have supported me so far and those in Australian Rugby who have showed faith in me.  I’ll be working hard to repay that trust.”

The deal commits one of the brightest talents in the game to the sport for the foreseeable future, with Jorgensen bursting onto the scene with a debut double for the Waratahs against the ACT Brumbies in 2023.

He was selected for the World Cup that year before an ankle injury prevented him from becoming the youngest ever Australian to debut at the event.

Jorgensen has already had several magical moments in the gold jersey, including the match-winner against England in 2024, while his performances against the British & Irish Lions established his claims to being one of the best young stars in World Rugby.

Jorgensen follows in the footsteps of father Pater, one of 12 father-son combinations to play for the Wallabies.

"At just 21, Max has already developed into a strong Test player and we believe he is capable of further improvement in the years ahead," RA Head of High Performance Peter Horne believes.

“It is pleasing to see a player of his calibre committing to rugby for the long-term and we look forward to his ongoing positive contributions to the performance and culture of the teams he represents.

“With his future now secured, Max can look forward to big year ahead for the Waratahs and Wallabies as we build towards the Rugby World Cup in Australia next year.”

“It is great news for not only the Waratahs, but also Australian rugby," coach Dan McKellar added.

“Max has developed quickly and at the age of just 21, is already a world-class winger.

“As with all players, there is still room for further growth, so we’re looking forward to him playing the best rugby of his career here in Sydney for the Waratahs.”

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