Veteran prop James Slipper has ended speculation on his future by inking a one-year deal with the ACT Brumbies to remain in contention for next year's Rugby World Cup.
The Canberra-based side on Thursday announced that Slipper would be staying on after becoming the most-capped Super Rugby player last season, notching 212 appearances.
It also follows the 36-year-old's decision to come out of Test retirement to play for the Wallabies in July's Nations Championship series, taking his all-time tally to 154 matches, second only to Welshman Alun Wyn Jones (170).
With fellow veterans Bernard Foley (NSW Waratahs) and James O'Connor (Western Force) signing deals with Australian clubs with an eye on making the home World Cup squad, Slipper kept the door open to follow suit.
The prop's addition to Les Kiss's side would be invaluable considering he'd become the first Australian to participate in five World Cups.
Only three men - Samoan Brian Lima and Italians Mauro Bergamasco and Sergio Parisse - have played in five tournaments.
"I have spoken to Les ... we had quite a few coffees together and I think the important thing is he wants to build that depth," Slipper said.
"I don't want to get too far ahead of myself ... (but) it'd be nice to represent the Wallabies and if they needed me, I'd make sure I'm ready to go.
"I've just been lucky that I'm wanted for another year. At the end of the day the World Cup naturally became a factor, but it wasn't the be-all."
Slipper conceded playing on beyond next year would be "unlikely", despite admitting that he received opportunities to play overseas.
The Queenslander also said that despite the allure of a World Cup, his focus remains purely on the Brumbies as he looks to help the side claim a first regional title since 2004.
With star Len Ikitau re-joining the side, already boasting eight Wallabies playing in the current Test series against Argentina, the Brumbies will be a force to be reckoned with in 2027.
View this post on Instagram
Coach Stephen Larkham added Slipper would bring important leadership to the club along with his on-field contribution, having made 112 tackles, carried for 85 metres and beaten five defenders in this year's campaign.
"Slips is still playing outstanding rugby. He was one of our most consistent performers throughout 2026, and he's shown he can continue to make a big impact for this team," Larkham said.
"He's become synonymous with the Brumbies through his toughness and consistency and we're excited they'll get to see him pull on the jersey for another season."
