La Rochelle have confirmed nine signings for the 2026-27 season, with Springbok lock Salmaan Moerat and centre David Kriel among the headline arrivals at the Stade Marcel-Deflandre.
Moerat, 28, joins on a three-year deal after five seasons as Stormers captain. The lock has 11 Test caps to his name. Kriel, 27, crosses from the Bulls and will compete for a midfield berth alongside former All Black George Moala, 35, who arrives after eight seasons at Clermont.
Head coach Ronan O'Gara has also secured Scotland fly-half Ben Healy on a two-year contract as a direct replacement for Ihaia West, who moves to Stade Français. Healy, 27 and Ireland-born, earned his 10 Scotland caps while at Edinburgh before a stint at Newcastle.
Samoa loose forward Theo McFarland, 30, brings 24 international caps and five seasons of Saracens experience to the squad on a two-year deal. Back-rower Sam Tuifua arrives from relegated Mont-de-Marsan, veteran scrum-half Christophe Loustalot comes in as cover for Nolann Le Garrec, and two French youngsters — lock Thomas Adelaïde and prop Nathan Fraissenon — complete the incoming group.
Australian hooker Tolu Latu, who has been at the club since December 2023, has extended his contract for a further season.
La Rochelle finished sixth in the Top 14 last season and were eliminated in the play-offs.