Gabriel Ibitoye: Bristol Bears wing signs new 'long-term' deal
- Published
Ibitoye has been one of the most finishers in England this season
Bristol wing Gabriel Ibitoye has signed a new long-term extension to his contract with the Bears.
The 25-year-old, who has scored eight tries in all competitions this season, said it was "a very easy decision" to stay with the club he joined in 2022.
"I feel my game has developed massively since arriving here," said the former England Under-20 international.
"I love the environment, the attacking philosophy and the brand of rugby that we are striving to play."
Ibitoye, who started his career at Harlequins and had spells in France with Agen and Montpellier before a season with Tel Aviv Heat in Israel, leads the Premiership for defenders beaten (43) this season and is fourth for metres made (660).
"Our dynamic style suits my game and I feel like I am continuing to grow and develop as a player," he added. "I'm hugely ambitious and I aspire to play for my country - I believe Bristol Bears is the right club for me to achieve that."
'Very high ceiling'
Bristol director of rugby Pat Lam described Ibitoye as "one of the most exciting attacking players in the Premiership".
"His pace, power and explosiveness is a perfect fit for the exciting way we play at the Bears," he added.
"He has developed hugely since arriving here two seasons ago and at just 25, still has room for growth and development and I believe his potential has a very high ceiling.
"Gabs has the ability to create opportunities out of nothing and is fast becoming one of the most potent finishers in the country, as demonstrated on multiple occasions already this season.
"We are all really pleased that Gabs has committed his future with us as he's also an excellent team man and is very popular in our group."