Contepomi Makes Toulon Switch

Contepomi, who has scored 1,193 points in 111 appearances for Leinster including a club record 243 points in the Heineken Cup, has agreed a four-year deal with the ambitious Top 14 side.

Commenting on his decision the 31 year-old who recently qualified as a doctor said, "This is one of the hardest decisions that I have ever had to make in my career. I have played some of the best years of my career with Leinster. They are the team that I have also played with the longest in my career.

"Since joining Leinster a few years ago I have seen the team grow, on and off the field, every year. I feel a strong link with Leinster because I have been blessed an Irish born daughter (Catalina) and with people who supported my ambition to complete my medical studies. The supporters will always hold a special place in my heart.

The former Puma captain has unfinished business with Leinster before he moves to France adding "We have three important months left in the season and my sole intention now is to do my best to try to help to win the Heineken Cup and retain the Magners League title for the club. It has been an incredible journey and I'd like to finish it on a high."

Leinster Coach Michael Cheika, who is sure to miss Contepomi's versatility said: "Felipe has been an unbelievable asset to the club and he's going to be sadly missed. He has been a great support for us at all levels and played an important role in the transition of the club into a strong professional organisation.

"His departure will inevitably provide an opportunity for another player, but Felipe still has a big role to play in the remaining months of the season."

Leinster's next step in their European campaign will be a difficult trip to the Twickenham Stoop to face on form Harlequins in the Heineken Cup quarter-finals on Sunday, 12 April.