A promising young back-row player who shone in the U20 Six Nations faces a tough decision in the coming year as he plans his future. Patrick Tuifua made a strong impression for France in the recent age-grade tournament, featuring in matches against Ireland and Scotland before returning to New Zealand. Born in New Caledonia, a French territory in the Pacific Ocean, he is currently only eligible to play for France, but that will change soon. Tuifua moved to New Zealand at 15 in 2020 and will be eligible to represent the All Blacks in 2025 due to World Rugby's residency rule.

He began his rugby journey at Jeunesse Sports et Loisirs de Normandie before earning a scholarship at Lindisfarne College in New Zealand. Tuifua has climbed the ranks in the southern hemisphere and secured a long-term deal with Hawke's Bay. The versatile back-rower, capable of playing at flanker or number eight, made his NPC debut in 2023 before joining the French U20 squad. Although he has been part of the Hurricanes' age-grade system since 2022, Tuifua may make his debut for the first team in the near future as the club aims to secure his services long-term.

Currently under contract with Hawke's Bay until 2025, Top 14 clubs are monitoring Tuifua closely, with Toulon, Montpellier, and Stade Francais showing interest. Recently, reports suggest that La Rochelle and Clermont Auvergne have also entered the race to sign him. While speculation suggests Tuifua may have his sights set on playing for the All Blacks, France U20 coach Sébastien Calvet believes his goal is to feature in Super Rugby with the Hurricanes franchise.