Uini Antonio has been given an emotional farewell from professional rugby.
The tighthead prop was given a haka by three players at the conclusion of the La Rochelle vs Stade Francais game.
It was announced that Antonio would retire from professional rugby in January in the lead up to the Six Nations after he suffered a cardiac incident.
The power of a haka
The haka was a traditional war dance used by the native Māori people of New Zealand as a preparation for battle. The haka has become synonymous with the All Blacks who share a rendition before every match, a call to battle on the rugby field.
In New Zealand culture, the haka surpasses battle and is used to show moments of significance. It is used as a traditional welcome and farewell, and also to signify important events in someone’s life.
This haka signified a farewell to Antonio from the rugby and La Rochelle community, but also felt significant as a preparation for the battle that the prop has for his health.
The haka was performed by Ihaia West and Will Skeleton, his current teammates and Tawera Kerr-Barlow, the All Black who played at La Rochelle until last year, but now plays for Stade Francais. Skelton, despite being a Wallaby, was born in Auckland and lived in New Zealand until he was 10.
Antonio’s career
Antonio played his entire professional career at La Rochelle, starting when the club were in the Pro D2 in 2011. His journey with the club progressed through their rise to the Top 14, finishing second in the Top 14 twice and winning the European Champions Cup twice in 2022 and 2023.
The prop was born in New Zealand to Samoan parents and went to the famous Wesley College before joining Counties Manukau, one of the provincial sides in New Zealand.
Antonio was released by Counties and played on the 10s scene. This is where he was spotted by a French agent who got him signed up to play for La Rochelle.
Antonio made his international debut for France in 2014, having qualified through residency rules, following three years in the country. He has won three Six Nations, being includided in the 2026 squad, despite being unable to play after his heart-attack. He started every game of the 2022 Grand Slam win.
