Aussie prop De Lutiis ends Ireland speculation after 'stressful' fortnight

The Queensland Reds said Massimo De Lutiis, who is Irish qualified, turned down an offer from the IRFU and Ulster

22-year tighthead prop Massimo De Lutiis has represented Australia at under-20 and A level. Pic: Mike Hewitt/Getty Images

Massimo De Lutiis said a weight has been lifted from his shoulders after signing a new three-year deal with the Queensland Reds. The 22-year-old prop, who is Irish qualified, had been linked with a move to Ireland late last month. 

The Reds said De Lutiis declined an offer from the IRFU and Ulster.

"I had a lot to weigh up. I spent a good week or two going through it and it was a bit stressful," De Lutiis said.

"Family, knowing Australia and what it is like here... they were two big deciding factors.

"'Did I want to be potentially playing in front of family and friends at a home World Cup next year?' I asked myself that question as well. Even if I don't, it would be amazing to be around a tournament like that with the huge support that's out there."

The tighthead has played for Australia at under-20 and A level, and was called up to a Wallabies camp in January. 

"I talked to some older boys at the Reds like Lukhan (Salakaia-Loto) and Jeffery (Toomaga-Allen), who have gone over to Europe to play. They gave me a good insight into what it would be like and what I would be leaving," he said.

"I've been invited into two Wallabies camps. I remember getting the first invitation by email and thinking it must be a mistake.

"I wondered how I'd fit in with all the big dogs but I got nothing but amazing support and learnt so much.

"You can always improve and that's what I want to be doing over the next three years. I know the scrum is the No.1 priority for a tighthead and I'll also be working on my whole game, running, ball skills, the whole thing."

Australia head coach Les Kiss, who worked with the player at the Reds, said De Lutiis impressed him during the early days of his career. Peter Horne, Rugby Australia's director of high performance, added that De Lutiis has a "bright future ahead of him".

"At just 22, he has demonstrated strong potential for the Reds, Australia A and the Australia U20s and has been included in two Wallabies camps," Horne continued.

“Massimo has been the subject of interest from overseas clubs and unions, and we are delighted he has chosen to commit to the Reds and Australian Rugby for the next three years."