Uini Atonio is one of the most powerful and respected tighthead props in modern rugby. Born in Timaru, New Zealand, to Samoan parents, he attended Wesley College, where he played for the first team, and later joined the Counties Manukau Rugby Academy. Although New Zealand-born, Atonio represented Samoa at the 2009 Junior World Cup, showcasing his talent on the international stage early in his career.
In 2011, La Rochelle recruited the young prop, marking the start of a defining chapter in his career. He quickly became a cornerstone of the team, captaining La Rochelle to promotion in the 2013/14 season and making his Top 14 debut in August 2014 against Brive. By September 2020, Atonio had made over 210 appearances for La Rochelle, scoring 45 points.
Known for his immense strength in the scrum, mobility in open play, and consistency, Atonio played a pivotal role in La Rochelle’s rise into a European powerhouse, contributing to multiple Top 14 playoff campaigns and European Rugby Champions Cup successes.
After three years in France, Atonio became eligible to play for the French national team. He earned his first call-up in 2014, making three Test appearances that year. In early 2015, he was selected for the French Six Nations squad, appearing in four matches off the bench.
Primarily used as an impact substitute, Atonio quickly earned a reputation as an explosive carrier in the loose while remaining solid in the scrum. He was selected for France’s 2015 Rugby World Cup squad, starting once at No. 3 against Romania at London’s Olympic Stadium. That same year, he made his Six Nations debut off the bench against Scotland, missing just one game in the tournament.
Atonio continued as a regular in France’s squad, taking part in the 2016 November Tests and the three-match tour to South Africa. By the 2019 Six Nations, he had already made 14 appearances in the tournament. In 2020, he was called up to replace the injured Wilfrid Hounkpatin for France’s Six Nations opener against England.
In 2022, Atonio started all five matches for France in the Six Nations. In 2023, he received a three-week suspension for a high tackle during the Six Nations after admitting in a disciplinary hearing that the tackle warranted a red card; his honesty reduced the ban from the usual six weeks. He has since been selected for France in the 2023 Rugby World Cup.
Atonio is known for combining raw power with technical skill. He is dominant in scrums, reliable in rucks, and an explosive presence in open play. His consistency, durability, and ability to perform at the highest level made him indispensable for both club and country.
Uini Atonio’s career is defined by resilience, strength, and loyalty. Forced to retire due to a serious heart condition, he leaves the game as one of the most respected props in European rugby. Beyond his achievements on the field, he has been a mentor and leader, shaping the next generation of players at La Rochelle and inspiring fans around the world.
Career Highlights:
Long-serving tighthead prop and captain for La Rochelle
Over 210 club appearances with 45 points scored
Captained La Rochelle to promotion in 2013/14; Top 14 debut in 2014
French international with numerous caps, including Six Nations and Rugby World Cups
Known for explosive ball carrying and scrummaging prowess
Selected for France in the 2023 Rugby World Cup
TZ 2026
Career
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Samoa U20's Openside Flanker |
2009 - 2009 |
 |
Counties Manukau Tighthead Prop |
2010 - 2011 |
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La Rochelle Tighthead Prop |
2014 - 2026 |
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France Tighthead Prop |
2014 - 2026 |
