Florin Surugiu, age forty-one, has concluded his playing career, marking his departure with a final appearance for Clubul Sportiv Rapid Bucuresti. He celebrated the occasion by scoring a try, helping his team secure fifth position in the Romanian Cup competition.
Surugiu’s involvement with rugby began at age eight, leading to over three decades dedicated to the sport and representing six different clubs. His professional debut occurred with Steaua Bucure?ti, where he contributed to their victory in the 2009 Romanian Cup. His first international appearance happened in 2008, entering as a substitute during Romania’s 10-06 triumph over Uruguay.
Between 2013 and 2015, he became a member of CSM Bucuresti, followed by a season in Italy with Calvisano. He then returned to Steaua in 2016, assisting the team in achieving another Romanian Cup title.
His 100th international appearance took place on November 13, 2022, in a match against Uruguay, though this time Uruguay won with a score of 21-16.
Surugiu is part of a select group of five players who have represented Romania in over 100 matches, alongside Florin Vlaicu, Catalin Fercu, Valentin Calafetaeanu, Mihai Macovei, and Vlaicu. He was a member of the Stejarii in three World Cups, notably contributing to their memorable 17-15 comeback victory against Canada in 2015. He is also remembered by supporters for his proposal to his now-wife following a game against Ireland.
He was the second-oldest participant at the 2023 Rugby World Cup, and in his final tournament match against Tonga, he demonstrated his skill by scoring a try.
Despite originally intending to retire from Test rugby, he remained involved in the 2024 Men’s Rugby Europe Championship, participating in three games during a campaign that ended with Romania finishing fourth.
In his concluding seasons, he was invited to join CS Rapid, where he brought both experience and composure to a younger team.
Romania’s head coach, David Gérard, shared his thoughts on Surugiu’s retirement with RugbyPass.
“It is always a bittersweet moment when we bid farewell to a player of Florin Surugiu’s caliber, as everything eventually concludes. Throughout numerous years, he dedicated himself to Romania, consistently giving his utmost. My tenure began after the 2023 Rugby World Cup, so I had the privilege of witnessing only the concluding chapter. Surugiu exerted every effort to support us during this period of transition, generously sharing his extensive knowledge and enthusiasm. I extend my sincere best wishes to him.”
RugbyPass also interviewed Surugiu after his final game, where he reflected upon the defining moments of his career.
“The moment I debuted for the Romanian national team holds great significance for me. Representing my country was a long-held ambition. Throughout my career, I’ve enjoyed many memorable moments, including participating in three World Cups (2011, 2015, 2023), winning the European Championship in 2017, and achieving 100 caps for Romania. Given the chance, I would undoubtedly pursue a rugby career again, as I relished every second.”
