Wigan Warriors sign Christian Wade

Wigan Warriors have announced the signing of Rugby Union winger and former NFL running back Christian Wade on a short-term deal.

Wade will join the Betfred Super League champions following the conclusion of the Premiership Rugby season with Gloucester Rugby.

Wade spent seven years with Wasps crossing for an impressive 82 tries before leaving to pursue a career in the NFL with the Buffalo Bills, taking advantage of the NFL’s International Player Pathway Programme.

On his return to Rugby, Wade featured for Racing 92 in France before joining Gloucester for the 2024-25 season.

Welcome to #SuperLeague, @ChristianWade3 ?

Joining @WiganWarriorsRL on a short-term deal until the end of 2025 following the conclusion of the Premiership Rugby season ? pic.twitter.com/sJijNartjQ

— Betfred Super League (@SuperLeague) April 18, 2025

Christian Wade said: “I’m excited to join Wigan Warriors, a Club with a tremendous legacy. I’m honoured to be joining a list of legendary players who have played for this Club. I’m looking forward to this next chapter in my career and I can’t wait to get started.”

Wigan Warriors Head Coach, Matt Peet, said: “We look forward to welcoming Christian and his partner Lisa to Wigan. As well as working hard to learn a new sport, we are expecting Christian to bring his own personality to the team in terms of his athleticism, skill and experience.

“I know Wigan fans will be excited and give him an amazing welcome.”

Warriors CEO Kris Radlinski added: “The new Talent Pool Exemption was created precisely for this type of recruitment. Christian is an exceptional athlete with highly transferable skills suited to Rugby League. His impressive track record speaks for itself and we are genuinely excited about the impact he can make throughout the remainder of the 2025 season.”