Reda Wardi

Relentless physicality and a tireless work rate define the game of Reda Wardi, a forward who has become a key cog in the Stade Rochelais machine. Wardi pours energy into both defence and the breakdown, and his aggressive tackling and ball-carrying strength were instrumental as La Rochelle claimed back-to-back European Champions Cup titles in 2022 and 2023, the crowning achievements of a club that had long chased that prize. Born on 2 August 1995, he has earned international recognition with the French national team and the French Barbarians, and he also represents Algeria on the international stage, reflecting his heritage. Within the Rochelais pack he offers the kind of abrasive, high-output presence that thrives in the cauldron of Top 14 and Champions Cup rugby. His value lies not in flashy moments but in the accumulation of hard graft: hitting rucks, making his tackles and providing go-forward when his side need it most. A two-time European champion with a growing collection of honours, Wardi has firmly established himself as one of the dependable workhorses of French club rugby.