From setback to Super League: Cody Ramsey secures rare UK clearance for a 2026 rugby revival.
Cody Ramsey’s rugby journey has taken a dramatic turn. The St George Illawarra Dragons fullback, once sidelined for years by illness, has been handed a remarkable lifeline. In a rare move, the UK Home Office has granted him special clearance, opening the door to a potential Super League contract in 2026.
Such a decision is far from ordinary. It not only reflects Ramsey’s determination to rebuild his career but also highlights the extraordinary cooperation between rugby’s governing bodies on both sides of the world.
A Long Road Back
Ramsey hasn’t played in the NRL since 2022. Ulcerative colitis forced him out of the spotlight, leaving him unable to compete at the highest level for two years. For many, that kind of absence would spell the end of a professional career. Yet, in 2024, Ramsey returned to the field in the New South Wales Cup.
His comeback was more than symbolic. Week after week, he stood out, proving that his skills and resilience remained intact. The Dragons noticed, offering him a train-and-trial contract for 2026. Still, Ramsey’s ambition stretches further. His sights are firmly set on securing a long-term deal, and Super League clubs in England have begun circling.
The Visa Obstacle
One hurdle threatened to block his dream: the Governing Body Endorsement (GBE). Without it, no work visa would be possible. Extended absences from elite play usually make approvals unlikely, leaving Ramsey in a precarious position.
That’s when NRL boss Peter V’landys stepped in. He championed Ramsey’s case, pushing at the highest levels to ensure his unique circumstances were fully understood. What followed were weeks of negotiations involving the NRL, the Rugby Football League (RFL), and UK officials.
A Rare Home Office Ruling
In the end, persistence paid off. The UK Home Office agreed to grant Ramsey a rare exemption, allowing him to qualify for a GBE despite his time away. This outcome gives Ramsey a clear path to play in England, provided he reaches an agreement with a Super League club for 2026.
Exemptions of this nature are almost unheard of, underlining just how exceptional his case is. The decision also demonstrates the commitment of rugby’s leadership to ensure talent like Ramsey isn’t lost due to circumstances beyond his control.
Conclusion
Cody Ramsey’s story is more than a comeback; it’s a testament to resilience, advocacy, and belief. With a rare Home Office ruling now behind him, his next chapter in rugby league may unfold in England. For Ramsey, the chance to step onto a Super League field in 2026 is no longer just a possibility, it’s a reality within reach.
