Bristol Bears have secured a major piece of their future, with back-row forward Christiana Balogun signing a new contract that will keep her at the Premiership Women's Rugby club beyond the 2025-26 season.

The 28-year-old has been a force on the pitch this season, featuring in 12 of the Bears' 14 games since joining from Wasps in 2022. Her consistent performances earned her a call-up to the England Red Roses squad for this year's Six Nations—one of seven uncapped players named to the roster. While she's yet to make her international debut ahead of the final two matches against Italy and France, her potential is undeniable.

Head coach Scott Lawson couldn't hide his admiration for Balogun's work ethic. "Chris has been outstanding in the way she approaches her game and her commitment to improving," he said. "Her attitude around the environment and her ambition to keep pushing herself have been first class. Those qualities are a huge part of why she's earned recognition with the Red Roses squad during the Six Nations."

Balogun is the latest in a wave of key re-signings for Bristol, joining England internationals Delaney Burns and Demelza Short in committing to the club in recent weeks. For Balogun, the decision was about more than just rugby. "I've grown massively during my four years at Bristol," she said. "The support from the coaches, staff, and players has been incredible. Being involved with the Red Roses during this current Six Nations has been such a proud moment that wouldn't have been possible without the people around me here at Bears."

With Balogun locked in, Bristol Bears are building a squad that blends experience with rising talent—a formula that could make them a serious contender in the seasons ahead. For fans, it's another reason to keep an eye on this dynamic back-row star, whether she's wearing the Bears' colors or representing England on the international stage.