The 32-year-old Olivier is heading to Japan after joining the Cheetahs in 2022 from the Russian club Enisei-STM, based in Serbia. At this stage, the name of his new Japanese club cannot be disclosed, as they want to be the first to announce their new signing.

Olivier had been set to return to the field for the Cheetahs in the SA Cup after sustaining an injury in the EPCR Challenge Cup in Amsterdam earlier this year. However, this did not materialise, as his deal in Japan was only finalised last week.

Friedle Olivier. Photo: Morgan Piek

Despite spending less than three years with the Free State side, Olivier became an invaluable member of the squad due to his versatility – he could play across the back row or as a lock. His unmatched physicality and powerful ball carries made him a key asset to the team.

During his time in Bloemfontein, he also won the Currie Cup with the Cheetahs in 2023, which remains a career highlight.

Speaking to OFM Sport, Olivier said he wrapped up his time at the Cheetahs on Friday, with everything happening very quickly.

“I’m heading to Japan – it all came together really, really quickly at the end of last week. But it’s a life-changing opportunity that I simply couldn’t turn down,” said Olivier.

“I believe that God sends these opportunities our way for a reason. I finished up at the Cheetahs on Friday, and now I’m preparing to leave for Japan. Unfortunately, I can’t reveal my new club just yet, as they want to be the ones to officially announce my signing.

“But what I can say is that I’m very excited for this next chapter in my career. I see it as the pinnacle of my journey so far. I’ve been truly blessed – moving to Russia after Covid, playing there for two-and-a-half years, and then getting the opportunity to join the Cheetahs, where I spent another two-and-a-half years. It’s been an incredible experience. I’ve made so many great memories and lifelong friends.”

Friedle Olivier. Photo: Morgan Piek

Olivier added that winning the Currie Cup and competing in the EPCR Challenge Cup will always hold a special place in his heart.

“That Currie Cup final and the chance to play in the EPCR Challenge Cup will stay with me forever. I was truly blessed to be part of the Cheetahs, and I believe it was always meant to be part of my journey before moving on to the next step.”

Although Olivier’s time in Bloemfontein was relatively short, his impact was significant. A formal announcement from his new club is expected in the coming week.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek cg