Melbourne Storm’s Olympian signing Moses Leo granted early release from his sevens deal

They’ve already turned Will Warbrick into an international star, and the Storm now have the chance to do something similar with another sevens star from New Zealand.

Melbourne Storm have bolstered their outside backs stocks for 2025 with Olympian Moses Leo granted an early reason from his sevens contract to join the minor premiers a year earlier than expected.

Leo originally signed with Melbourne on a two-year deal from 2026 onwards, but New Zealand Rugby have given him the green light to leave now which means he’ll start training with the Storm in the coming days.

“We are looking forward to seeing Moses join his teammates for pre-season this year and appreciate the co-operation from New Zealand Rugby in supporting Moses with his request for an early release,” Storm Director of Football, Frank Ponissi, said.

Storm recruit Moses Leo has achieved plenty for New Zealand in rugby sevens. Picture: Carl de Souza / AFP

Leo, 27, debuted with the All Blacks sevens squad in 2022 and has represented New Zealand at both the Commonwealth and Olympic Games.

He scored two tries against Australia in the bronze medal match at the Commonwealth Games in 2022, while he was in the squad that lost to South Africa in the quarter-finals in Paris earlier this year.

The Storm have already had success with a former sevens star, with Will Warbrick establishing himself as one of the best wingers in the world this season.

His size, power and aerial ability made him a weapon on the edge for the Storm and Kiwis in 2024 after Melbourne took a patient approach with him.

It’s why he’s confident Leo has landed at the perfect club to help him make the transition from sevens to rugby league.

The Storm turned Will Warbrick into a representative player after bringing him across from sevens. Picture: Robert Cianflone/Getty Images

“He’s a dynamic guy, a great athlete, got great speed and skill. He’s got a good offload and good footwork, so he’s a damaging runner. If you’ve got those traits, I’m sure you’ll do well in the NRL. I can’t compare him to anyone, but he’s a talent,” Warbrick said back in August.

“I’m not going to say he’s going to come in and light the world on fire. He might do, who knows, but he’s got a good character about him.

“He’s a disciplined dude who’s hardworking. If you’ve got those traits you’ll do well at whatever you decide to do. I think he’ll excel here. He’ll fit in and that’s the main thing.

“Melbourne’s a good environment. We’ve got some really good players here, got great coaches and we’ve just got great people at the club. Melbourne have good people in the club who are willing to help and put time and effort into you and develop you, that’s what they’re good at.

“I’ve seen first hand he works hard, he’s a great trainer and we’ve got great coaches and a great environment.”