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Simon Zebo

{{Short description|Irish rugby union player}}

{{Use Hiberno-English|date=August 2022}}

{{Use dmy dates|date=August 2022}}

{{Infobox rugby biography

|name = Simon Zebo

|image = Simon Zebo 2017.jpg

|caption = Zebo in 2017

|birth_name =

|birth_date = {{birth date and age|df=y|1990|3|16}}

|birth_place = Cork, Ireland

|height = {{height|m=1.88}}

|weight = {{convert|99|kg|st lbs|abbr=on}}

|position = Wing, Fullback

|amatyears1 = 2007–2012

|amatteam1 = Cork Constitution

|years1 = 2010–2018

|clubs1 = Munster

|apps1 = 144

|points1 = 300

|years2 = 2018–2021

|clubs2 = Racing 92

|apps2 = 60

|points2 = 125

|years3 = 2021–2024

|clubs3 = Munster

|apps3 = 32

|points3 = 65

|clubupdate = 15 June 2024

|repyears1 = 2010

|repteam1 = Ireland U20

|repcaps1 = 9

|reppoints1 = 18

|repyears2 = 2012–2014

|repteam2 = Ireland Wolfhounds

|repcaps2 = 2

|reppoints2 = 5

|repyears3 = 2012–2017

|repteam3 = Ireland

|repcaps3 = 35

|reppoints3 = 45

|repupdate = 17 June 2017

|spouse =

|children =

|relatives =

|school = Presentation Brothers College

|university =

}}

Simon Zebo (born 16 March 1990) is an Irish former rugby union player who played as a wing or fullback for clubs Munster and Racing 92 and for Ireland and the British and Irish Lions.

Early life

Born in Cork, Zebo attended Beaumont Boys School and Presentation Brothers College, Cork.{{cite news|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/rugbyunion/international/ireland/9858257/Six-Nations-2013-how-Irelands-Simon-Zebo-was-the-king-of-all-school-sports.html|title=Six Nations 2013: how Ireland's Simon Zebo was the king of all school sports|date=8 February 2013|work=The Telegraph|access-date=14 June 2013}} In his youth he also played hurling for Blackrock GAA and association football for Avondale United.{{cite news|url=http://www.the42.ie/simon-zebo-munster-cork-hurling-867665-Apr2013/|title=Simon Zebo was a great loss to Cork hurling, let me tell you|date=13 April 2013|work=The 42|access-date=14 June 2013}}{{cite news|url=http://www.avondaleunited.com/history.htm|title=Avondate United History|work=Avondale United Football Club}}

Munster

=2010–2013=

Zebo made his Munster debut against Connacht on 18 April 2010{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/report/old-dogs-lead-the-way-down-the-hard-road/|title=Old Dogs Lead The Way Down The Hard Road|date=19 April 2010|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=9 September 2011}} and scored his first try for Munster against Scarlets in April 2011.{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/report/mcgahans-bold-approach-rewarded/|title=McGahan's Bold Approach Rewarded|date=17 April 2011|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=9 September 2011}} He made his Heineken Cup debut for Munster against Scarlets on 10 December 2011.{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/report/set-piece-defence-gives-munster-the-edge/|title=Set-Piece & Defence Gives Munster The Edge|date=11 December 2011|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=11 December 2011}} Zebo opened his Heineken Cup scoring account with a hat-trick against Northampton Saints on 21 January 2012, during a Man-of-the-Match performance in the round 6 fixture.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-close-the-deal/|title=Munster Close The Deal|date=22 January 2012|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=22 January 2012}}

In January 2013, Zebo agreed a three-year contract with Munster.{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/2013/01/03/nine-contract-extensions-agreed-2/|title=Nine Contract Extensions Agreed|date=3 January 2013|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=4 January 2013}} He became the first ever player to score two Heineken Cup hat-tricks within a year, scoring three of Munster's five tries in the home match against Racing 92 on 20 January 2013, again being awarded the Man-of-the-Match.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-go-through/|title=Munster Go Through|date=21 January 2013|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=21 January 2013}} He made his return from the foot injury sustained in Ireland's 2013 Six Nations in Munster's 18–12 Heineken Cup quarter-final victory against Harlequins on 7 April 2013.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/alone-they-stand/|title=Alone They Stand|date=8 April 2013|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=10 May 2013}} He also started the 16–10 semi-final defeat to Clermont Auvergne on 27 April 2013.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-lose-a-game-of-two-halves/|title=Munster Lose A Game of Two Halves|date=28 April 2013|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=10 May 2013}} Zebo was named Munster Young Player of the Year for the 2012–13 season on 12 May 2013.{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/2013/05/10/tommy-odonnell-named-munster-player-of-the-year-2/|title=Tommy O'Donnell Named Munster Player of the Year|date=10 May 2013|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=10 May 2013}} He was also nominated for Munster Player of the Year.{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/2013/05/02/nominations-made-for-munster-rugby-awards-2/|title=Nominations Made For Munster Rugby Awards|date=2 May 2013|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=10 May 2013}}

File:Simon Zebo (cropped).jpg in the 2012–13 Heineken Cup.]]

Zebo suffered a foot injury during Munster's opening 2013–14 Heineken Cup fixture against Edinburgh on 12 October 2013, ruling him out for 10 weeks.{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/2013/10/15/zebo-injury-update-2/|title=Zebo Injury Update|date=15 October 2013|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=8 December 2013}}

=2014–2018=

Zebo returned to full training on 6 January 2014.{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/2014/01/06/squad-update-127/|title=Squad Update|date=6 January 2014|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=7 January 2013}} Zebo came off the bench in the 20–7 away win against Gloucester on 11 January 2014, a win that secured quarter-final qualification in the 2013–14 Heineken Cup.{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/report/quarter-final-place-secured/|title=Quarter Final Place Secured|date=12 January 2014|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=12 January 2014}} He also came off the bench against Edinburgh in the round 6 fixture on 19 January 2014, scoring a try in the 38–6 win that secured a home quarter-final.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/bonus-point-munster-move-into-home-quarters/|title=Bonus-Point Munster Move Into Home Quarters|date=19 January 2014|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=19 January 2014}} Zebo scored a brace of tries against Zebre on 15 February 2014.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/ocallaghan-breaks-record-in-bonus-point-win/|title=O'Callaghan Breaks Record In Bonus-Point Win|date=15 February 2014|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=16 February 2014}} He started in Munster's Heineken Cup quarter-final against Toulouse on 5 April 2014, scoring a try in the 47–23 win.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/vintage-munster-storm-into-semis/|title=Vintage Munster Storm Into Semis|date=5 April 2014|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=5 April 2014}} Zebo started in Munster's semi-final against Toulon on 27 April 2014, scoring a try in the 24–16 defeat.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/toulon-end-munsters-european-campaign/|title=Toulon End Munster's European Campaign|date=27 April 2014|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=27 April 2014}}

Zebo scored a try in Munster's win against Benetton on 12 September 2014.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-pass-treviso-test/|title=Munster Pass Treviso Test|date=12 September 2014|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=13 September 2014}} He scored a hat-trick against Zebre on 19 September 2014, a game in which he won the Man-of-the-Match award.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/zebo-hat-trick-against-zebre/|title=Zebo Hat-Trick Against Zebre|date=19 September 2014|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=20 September 2014}} Zebo started in Munster's first European Rugby Champions Cup game against Sale Sharks on 18 October 2014.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/keatley-kicks-munster-on/|title=Keatley Kicks Munster On|date=18 October 2014|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=18 October 2014}} He started against Saracens in round 2 of the Champions Cup on 24 October 2014.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-overcome-saracens/|title=Munster Overcome Saracens|date=24 October 2014|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=25 October 2014}} Zebo started in the round 3 game against Clermont Auvergne on 6 December 2014.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/clermont-claim-win-at-thomond-park/|title=Clermont Claim Win At Thomond Park|date=6 December 2014|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=6 December 2014}} He also started in the reverse fixture against Clermont on 14 December 2014.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/losing-bonus-point-secured-at-clermont/|title=Losing Bonus Point Secured At Clermont|date=14 December 2014|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=14 December 2014}} Zebo started against Saracens on 17 January 2015.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-lose-out-in-london/|title=Munster Lose Out In London|date=17 January 2015|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=17 January 2015}} He started at Fullback against Sale Sharks in round 6 on 25 January 2015, scoring two tries and earning the Man-of-the-Match award in the 65–10 win.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-finish-with-flourish/|title=Munster Finish With Flourish|date=25 January 2015|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=25 January 2015}} Zebo scored a try in Munster's 42–20 win against Connacht on 28 March 2015. In doing so, he equaled Doug Howlett's record of 22 league tries for Munster.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/bonus-point-win-at-thomond-park/|title=Bonus Point Win At Thomond Park|date=28 March 2015|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=28 March 2015}} Zebo scored a try in Munster's 34–3 win against Edinburgh on 11 April 2015, overtaking Howlett's record.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/bonus-point-win-at-murrayfield/|title=Bonus Point Win At Murrayfield|date=11 April 2015|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=11 April 2015}} He scored a try in the 30–19 win against Treviso on 25 April 2015.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-make-home-advantage-count/|title=Munster Make Home Advantage Count|date=25 April 2015|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=25 April 2015}} Zebo scored a try in Munster's 21–18 play-off semi-final win against Ospreys on 23 May 2015.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/final-beckons-after-incredible-win/|title=Final Beckons After Incredible Win|date=23 May 2015|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=23 May 2015}} He started for Munster in the 2015 Pro12 Grand Final against Glasgow Warriors on 30 May 2015.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-well-beaten-as-warriors-claim-title/|title=Munster Well Beaten As Warriors Claim Title|date=31 May 2015|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=31 May 2015}}

Zebo started the opening pool game of the 2015–16 European Rugby Champions Cup against Benetton on 14 November 2015, scoring a try in Munster's 32-7 win.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/job-done-in-thomond/|title=Job Done In Thomond|date=14 November 2015|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=14 November 2015}} He started against Leicester Tigers in the Champions Cup on 12 December 2015.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/tigers-pounce-in-thomond/|title=Tigers Pounce In Thomond|date=12 December 2015|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=13 December 2015}} On 16 January 2016, Zebo scored a try in Munster's round 4 Champions Cup game against Stade Français, equaling Anthony Horgan's record of 41 tries scored for Munster.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-bounce-back-in-style-at-thomond/|title=Munster Bounce Back In Style At Thomond|date=16 January 2016|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=16 January 2016}} On 1 February 2016, it was announced that Zebo had signed a new two-year contract with Munster and the IRFU.{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/2016/02/01/zebo-commits-to-munster/|title=Zebo Commits To Munster|date=1 February 2016|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=1 February 2016}} On 25 March 2016, Zebo scored two tries against Zebre. In doing so, he overtook Anthony Horgan's try-scoring record (41) for Munster.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/record-win-recorded-in-thomond/|title=Record Win Recorded In Thomond|date=25 March 2016|work=munsterrugby.ie|access-date=26 March 2016}} On 16 April 2016, Zebo earnt his 100th cap for Munster, starting at Fullback in the game against Connacht.{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-come-undone-in-connacht/|title=Munster Come Undone In Connacht|date=16 April 2016|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=9 October 2017}}

On 3 September 2016, Zebo went off injured in Munster's 2016–17 Pro12 fixture against Scarlets. He was subsequently ruled out for 5 weeks with a fractured rib.{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/2016/09/08/player-update-3/|title=Player Update|date=8 September 2016|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=8 September 2016}} On 1 October 2016, he made his return from the injury, scoring a try in Munster's 49–5 win against Zebre.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/try-fest-in-thomond/|title=Try Fest In Thomond|date=1 October 2016|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=1 October 2016}} On 7 January 2017, Zebo scored his 50th try for Munster in the sides 32–7 away win against Racing 92.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-deliver-winning-performance/|title=Munster Deliver Winning Performance|date=7 January 2017|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=7 January 2017}} On 27 May 2017, Zebo started for Munster against Scarlets in the 2017 Pro12 Grand Final.{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/report/aviva-anguish-in-pro12-final/|title=Aviva Anguish In PRO12 Final|date=27 May 2017|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=28 May 2017}} It was confirmed in October 2017 that Zebo would leave Munster at the end of the 2017–18 season.{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/2017/10/23/zebo-leave-munster/|title=Zebo to Leave Munster|date=23 October 2017|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=23 October 2017}} Zebo's try in Munster's 27–22 Champions Cup semi-final defeat against Racing 92 on 22 April 2018 saw him equal Anthony Foley's club record of 23 tries in European games.{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/report/munsters-champions-cup-dream-ends-in-bordeaux/|title=Munster's Champions Cup Dream Ends In Bordeaux|date=22 April 2018|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=23 April 2018}} He set up Keith Earls' crucial try in Munster's 20–16 win against Edinburgh in the 2017–18 Pro14 semi-final qualifier on 5 May 2018, a match that was Zebo's final appearance for his home province in Thomond Park.{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-edinburgh/|title=Munster Into PRO14 Semi-Finals After Edging Out Edinburgh|date=5 May 2018|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=6 May 2018}} Zebo made his final appearance for Munster on 19 May 2018, starting in the provinces 16–15 defeat at the hands of Leinster in their Pro14 semi-final.{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-lose-semi-final-to-leinster-by-a-point/|title=Munster Lose Semi-Final To Leinster By A Point|date=19 May 2018|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=20 May 2018}}

Racing 92

French Top 14 club Racing 92 confirmed in January 2018 that Zebo would be joining them at the beginning of the 2018–19 season.{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/rugby-union/42629702|title=Simon Zebo: Racing 92 reveal signing of Munster back before Champions Cup game|date=9 January 2018|work=BBC Sport|access-date=11 January 2018}} Zebo made his competitive debut for Racing on 25 August 2018, starting at fullback in their 25–9 win against Toulon.{{cite news|url=http://www.the42.ie/zebo-racing-92-top-14-debut-4200391-Aug2018/|title=Simon Zebo starts at fullback for Top14 debut against Toulon|date=25 August 2018|work=The42|access-date=26 August 2018}}{{cite news|url=http://www.the42.ie/simon-zebo-top-14-france-racing-92-toulon-4202087-Aug2018/|title=Simon Zebo off to flying start in Top 14 as Racing secure opening weekend win over Toulon|date=25 August 2018|work=The42|access-date=26 August 2018}} He scored his first try for Racing in their 40–17 defeat at the hands of Clermont on 2 September 2018.{{cite news|url=http://www.the42.ie/simon-zebo-racing-clermont-4215585-Sep2018/|title=Zebo opens his Top 14 account but Racing hammered by Clermont|date=2 September 2018|work=The42|access-date=3 September 2018}} During Racing 92's 26–22 defeat against Ulster in the Champions Cup on 12 January 2019, Zebo was the target of racial abuse from an Ulster fan; Ulster later issued a lifetime ban to the individual responsible for the racism.{{cite news|url=https://www.the42.ie/simon-zebo-embroiled-in-racism-controversy-following-ulster-racing-clash-4437714-Jan2019/|title=Ulster Rugby vow to 'robustly investigate any complaints' after Simon Zebo says he was abused by fans|date=13 January 2019|work=The42|access-date=23 January 2019}}{{cite news|url=https://www.the42.ie/ulster-life-time-ban-abuse-simon-zebo-4453637-Jan2019/|title=Ulster Rugby issue lifetime ban to spectator who abused Simon Zebo|date=22 January 2019|work=The42|access-date=23 January 2019}}

Zebo started for Racing 92 in the 2020 European Rugby Champions Cup Final against English club Exeter Chiefs on 17 October, scoring two tries in their narrow 31–27 defeat and earning praise for his performance.{{cite news|url=https://www.the42.ie/whitten-steenson-zebo-ryan-5236553-Oct2020/|title=Exeter's Irish stalwarts victorious but Simon Zebo superb in defeat for Racing|date=17 October 2020|work=The42|access-date=18 October 2020}} Zebo also paid tribute to his former Munster coach Anthony Foley during the game, who died suddenly on 16 October 2016 while Munster were in Paris to play Racing 92 in a Champions Cup pool game.{{cite news|url=https://www.irishexaminer.com/sport/rugby/arid-40066728.html|title=Simon Zebo pays touching tribute to Anthony Foley|date=18 October 2020|work=Irish Examiner|access-date=18 October 2020}} Zebo's final game for Racing 92 was their 19–6 defeat against Ronan O'Gara's La Rochelle in the semi-finals of the 2020–21 Top 14 season on 18 June 2021.{{cite news|url=https://www.irishexaminer.com/sport/rugby/arid-40317668.html|title=Clinical La Rochelle end Simon Zebo's French adventure and march onto Top 14 final|date=18 June 2021|work=Irish Examiner|access-date=19 June 2021}}

Return to Munster

After three seasons with Racing 92, Zebo returned to his native province Munster on a one-year contract for the 2021–22 season.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2021/04/14/munster-rugby-re-sign-simon-zebo/|title=Munster Rugby Re-Sign Simon Zebo|date=14 April 2021|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=14 April 2021}} Zebo's contract was co-funded by the IRFU, and he took a salary cut to rejoin the club.{{cite news|url=https://www.irishexaminer.com/sport/rugby/arid-40265957.html|title=Zebo makes salary sacrifice to rejoin Munster|date=14 April 2021|work=Irish Examiner|access-date=14 April 2021}} Zebo made his 'second debut' for Munster in their opening 2021–22 United Rugby Championship fixture against the Sharks on 25 September 2021, scoring two tries in their 42–17 win against the South African side.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/report-munster-start-season-with-bonus-point-win-over-sharks/|title=Report {{!}} Munster Start Season With Bonus-Point Win Over Sharks|date=25 September 2021|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=25 September 2021}} He was sent off in Munster's 18–13 home win against provincial rivals Ulster in round 10 of the United Rugby Championship on 8 January 2022;{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/report-14-man-munster-fight-back-to-beat-ulster/|title=Report {{!}} 14-Man Munster Fight Back To Beat Ulster|date=8 January 2022|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=9 January 2022}} no further action was taken against Zebo by a disciplinary panel following the incident.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2022/01/12/disciplinary-decision-simon-zebo/|title=Disciplinary Decision {{!}} Simon Zebo|date=12 January 2022|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=12 January 2022}}

Zebo signed a two-year contract extension with Munster in January 2022.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2022/01/10/further-boost-for-munster-rugby-on-the-contract-front/|title=Further Boost For Munster Rugby On The Contract Front|date=10 January 2022|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=10 January 2022}} He scored two tries in Munster's 45–7 win at home to Wasps in round 4 of the 2021–22 Champions Cup on 23 January 2022, which saw Zebo become Munster's all-time leading try-scorer in the competition with 25, as well as the leading Irish try-scorer in the competition with 34, overtaking Brian O'Driscoll for the latter record, and moved up to third in the all-time record for try scorers in the competition, behind only Vincent Clerc (36) and Chris Ashton (40).{{cite news|url=https://www.irishexaminer.com/sport/rugby/arid-40791522.html|title=Impressive Munster romp into last 16 with convincing win over Wasps|date=23 January 2022|work=Irish Examiner|access-date=23 January 2022}}

Zebo earned his 150th cap for Munster in their 13–11 away defeat against Glasgow Warriors in the rescheduled round 18 of the 2021–22 United Rugby Championship on 11 February 2022,{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/report-munster-beaten-in-glasgow/|title=Report {{!}} Munster Beaten In Glasgow|date=11 February 2022|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=12 February 2022}} and scored a hat-trick of tries in Munster's 34–20 home win against Edinburgh in round 12 of the URC on 18 February 2022.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/report-munster-secure-bonus-point-win-over-edinburgh/|title=Report {{!}} Munster Secure Bonus Point Win Over Edinburgh|date=18 February 2022|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=19 February 2022}} He started and scored one try in Munster's historic 28–14 win against a South Africa XV in Páirc Uí Chaoimh on 10 November 2022.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/report-munster-secure-historic-victory-over-sa-select-xv/|title=Report {{!}} Munster Secure Historic Victory Over SA Select XV|date=10 November 2022|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=13 November 2022}}

On January 13, 2024, he extended his record as Munster’s all-time leading try scorer in European Champions Cup history with his 26th try for Munster and 35th overall.

He retired from Munster at the end of the 2023-2024 season

Ireland

=2012–2015=

Zebo was selected to train alongside the main 24-man Irish senior squad for the first week of their training for the 2012 Six Nations Championship.{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/news/6870.php#.Wds_iPiGPcs|title=Ireland And O2 Ireland Wolfhounds Squads Announced|date=18 January 2012|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=20 January 2012}} He was called up into the Ireland Wolfhounds squad for their game against England Saxons after Luke Fitzgerald failed to recover from injury in time.{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/news/6898.php#.Wds_xPiGPcs|title=Changes To Ireland And O2 Ireland Wolfhounds Squads|date=23 January 2012|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=23 January 2012}} He made his Wolfhounds debut against England Saxons on 28 January 2012, scoring a try during the game.{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/2012/01/28/saxons-hang-on/|title=Saxons Hang On|date=28 January 2012|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=1 July 2012}} He was selected in Ireland's senior squad for the 2012 tour to New Zealand and made his senior Ireland debut on 9 June 2012, starting on the left-wing in the first test.{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/5301.php|title=Ireland Open Series With Auckland Defeat|date=9 June 2012|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=5 February 2013}}

Zebo scored his first try for Ireland against Argentina on 24 November 2012, whilst playing at Fullback.{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/5238.php|title=Tries Flow As Ireland Pummel Pumas|date=24 November 2012|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=1 December 2012}} Zebo was named in Ireland's training squad for the 2013 Six Nations Championship on 17 January 2013.{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/news/3491.php#.WdtBJviGPcs|title=Ireland Training Squad Announced|date=17 January 2013|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=21 January 2013}} He made his Six Nations debut on 2 February 2013, scoring a try as Ireland beat Wales 30–22 in the Millennium Stadium.{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/28399.php|title=Cardiff Cracker Gets Ireland Up And Running|date=2 February 2013|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=3 February 2013}} Zebo hit the headlines when he used a back-heel flick to retain the ball in the lead-up to Cian Healy's try for Ireland against Wales.{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6lSTds3W9Kw|title=Cian Healy Try Wales v Ireland Match 02 Feb 2013|work=YouTube|access-date=13 March 2013}} He started against England on 10 February 2013, but went off injured early in the first half.{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/28417.php|title=Penalties Decide It As Ireland Lose Brutal Contest|date=10 February 2013|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=10 February 2013}} Zebo was ruled out for 10 weeks after suffering a broken foot during the match.{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/rugby-union/21405612|title=Six Nations 2013: Zebo 10 weeks outs; Sexton doubtful|date=10 February 2013|work=BBC Sport|access-date=10 February 2013}}

Zebo won the IRUPA award for Supporters' Player of the Year on 8 May 2013.{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/2013/05/09/irupa-awards-for-holland-and-zebo/|title=IRUPA Awards For Holland And Zebo|date=9 May 2013|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=9 May 2013}} He was also nominated for Players' Player of the Year, but lost out to Ulster's Nick Williams.{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/news/27313.php#.WdtD0_iGPcs|title=Williams Chosen As IRUPA Players' Player of the Year|date=8 May 2013|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=9 May 2013}} Zebo was named in the Ireland squad for the 2013 Ireland tour to North America on 19 May 2013.{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/news/27384.php#.WdtECPiGPcs|title=Ireland Squads Announced For Summer Tours|date=19 May 2013|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=19 May 2013}} He started against the United States on 8 June 2013.{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/28468.php|title=O'Mahony Leads Young Guns To Victory in Tour Opener|date=9 June 2013|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=9 June 2013}}

Zebo was added to the extended Ireland training squad for the 2014 Six Nations Championship on 20 January 2014.{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/news/29198.php#.WdtEh_iGPcs|title=Gilroy And Zebo Join Ireland Squad|date=20 January 2014|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=20 January 2014}} He came off the bench for Ireland Wolfhounds in their friendly against England Saxons on 25 January 2014.{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/29325.php|title=Wolfhounds Hold On For Hard-Fought Victory|date=25 January 2014|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=26 January 2014}} Zebo was added to the Ireland squad for the 2014 Six Nations fixture against Italy.{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/2014/03/03/zebo-kilcoyne-and-ryan-added-to-ireland-squad-2/|title=Zebo, Kilcoyne And Ryan Added To Ireland Squad|date=3 March 2014|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=3 March 2014}}

Zebo was named in the Ireland squad for their 2014 Tour to Argentina on 19 May 2014.{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/2014/05/19/ireland-squad-named-for-argentina-2/|title=Ireland Squad Named For Argentina|date=19 May 2014|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=19 May 2014}} He started the first test against Argentina on 7 June 2014.{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/31990.php|title=New-Look Ireland Stretch Clear Of Pumas In Second Half|date=7 June 2014|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=14 June 2014}} Zebo also started the second test against Argentina on 14 June 2014, scoring a try.{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/32065.php|title=Ireland Wrap Up Series Win In Argentina|date=14 June 2014|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=2 July 2014}}

Zebo was named in the Ireland squad for the 2014 Guinness Series on 21 October 2014.{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/news/32731.php#.WdtGb_iGPcs|title=Ireland Name 37-Man Squad For Guinness Series|date=21 October 2014|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=21 October 2014}} He started in the 29–15 win against South Africa on 8 November 2014.{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/32917.php|title=Clinical Ireland Claim Springbok Scalp|date=8 November 2014|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=9 November 2014}} He also started in the 49–7 win against Georgia on 16 November 2014, scoring a try.{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/33009.php|title=Ireland Outgun Georgia With Six-Try Second Half Salvo|date=16 November 2014|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=16 November 2014}} Zebo started against Australia on 22 November 2014, scoring the opening try in the 26–23 win for Ireland.{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/33095.php|title=Thrilling Win Seals Series Clean Sweep For Ireland|date=22 November 2014|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=23 November 2014}}

Zebo was named in the Ireland squad for the opening rounds of the 2015 Six Nations Championship on 1 February 2015.{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/news/33685.php#.WdtHCfiGPcs|title=Ireland Name 38-Man Squad For Six Nations Opening Rounds|date=1 February 2015|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=2 February 2015}} He started against Italy on 7 February 2015.{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/33744.php|title=Murray And O'Donnell Tries Steer Ireland To Rome Win|date=7 February 2015|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=7 February 2015}} Zebo started against France on 14 February 2015.{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/33830.php|title=Sexton's Boot Guides Ireland To Hard-Fought Victory Over France|date=14 February 2015|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=14 February 2015}} He started in the 19–9 win against England on 1 March 2015.{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/33987.php|title=Henshaw's First Try Sees Ireland Overcome England|date=1 March 2015|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=1 March 2015}} Zebo started against Wales on 14 March 2015.{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/34123.php|title=Ireland's Winning Run Ended By Wales|date=14 March 2015|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=15 March 2015}} England's failure to score enough points against France meant Ireland won the 2015 Six Nations Championship, the first time Ireland have won back-to-back championships since 1948–49.{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/news/34179.php#.WdtH2fiGPcs|title=Thrilling Title Finish Sees Ireland Crowned Champions Again|date=21 March 2015|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=21 March 2015}}

Zebo was named in the 45-man training squad for the 2015 Rugby World Cup on 24 June 2015.{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/2015/06/24/9-munster-players-in-ireland-training-squad-2/|title=9 Munster Players Ireland Training Squad|date=24 June 2015|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=24 June 2015}} He came off the bench in the first World Cup warm-up against Wales on 8 August 2015, scoring a try in the 35–21 win for Ireland.{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/35168.php|title=Ireland Win Opening Warm-Up Clash In Cardiff|date=8 August 2015|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=8 August 2015}} Zebo started the second warm-up against Scotland on 15 August 2015, scoring another try and earning the Man-of-the-Match award in Ireland's 28–22 win.{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/35265.php|title=Fitzgerald Try Proves Decisive In Scrappy GUINNESS Series Encounter|date=15 August 2015|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=15 August 2015}} He was selected in the final 31-man squad for the World Cup when it was announced on 1 September 2015.{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/news/35385.php#.WdtIofiGPcs|title=Ireland Squad Named For Rugby World Cup|date=1 September 2015|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=1 September 2015}} Zebo started in the final warm-up game against England on 5 September 2015.{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/35442.php|title=England Consign Ireland To Second Warm-Up Defeat|date=5 September 2015|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=6 September 2015}} He came off the bench during the opening pool game against Canada on 19 September 2015.{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/35581.php|title=Bonus Point Win Gets Ireland Off To Satisfying World Cup Start|date=19 September 2015|work=irishrugby.ie|access-date=19 September 2015}} Zebo started the second pool game against Romania on 27 September 2015.{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/35654.php|title=Ireland Back On Top After Second Bonus Point Victory|date=27 September 2015|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=27 September 2015}} Following an injury to Rob Kearney, Zebo started at fullback in Ireland's 16–9 win over Italy on 4 October 2015.{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/35736.php|title=Earls' Eighth RWC Try Sends Ireland Through To Quarter-Finals|date=4 October 2015|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=4 October 2015}}

=2016–2021=

On 20 January 2016, Zebo was named in Ireland's 35-man squad for the 2016 Six Nations Championship.{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/news/36692.php#.WdtJXviGPcs|title=Ireland Squad Named For Opening Rounds Of RBS Six Nations|date=20 January 2016|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=20 January 2016}} On 7 February 2016, Zebo started at Fullback against Wales in Ireland's opening match of the Six Nations.{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/36857.php|title=Ireland And Wales Play Out Pulsating Draw In Dublin|date=7 February 2016|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=7 February 2016}} On 27 February 2016, Zebo came off the bench in Ireland's 21–10 defeat against England. On 26 October 2016, Zebo was named in Ireland's squad for the 2016 end-of-year rugby union internationals.{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/news/38355.php#.WdtJ3viGPcs|title=Six Uncapped Players In Ireland Squad|date=26 October 2016|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=26 October 2016}} On 5 November 2016, Zebo started in Ireland's test against New Zealand at Soldier Field, Chicago, scoring a try in a 40–29 win that was Ireland's first ever against the All Blacks.{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/38438.php|title=Ireland Stun All Blacks To Create History In Chicago|date=5 November 2016|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=6 November 2016}}

Zebo was named in the Ireland squad for the 2017 Six Nations Championship,{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/2017/01/23/13-munster-players-in-ireland-squad-2/|title=13 Munster Players In Ireland Squad|date=23 January 2017|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=23 January 2017}} and started every game in the tournament.{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/39042.php|title=Ireland Let Lead Slip As Laidlaw Kicks Scotland To Deserved Win|date=4 February 2017|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=25 March 2017}}{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/39083.php|title=Ireland Notch Nine Tries In Rome Rout|date=11 February 2017|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=25 March 2017}}{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/39171.php|title=Ireland Pass French Test To Stay In Title Contention|date=25 February 2017|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=25 March 2017}}{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/39262.php|title=Mistakes Cost Ireland as Three-Try Wales Emerge Triumphant|date=10 March 2017|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=25 March 2017}}{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/39308.php|title=Ireland Dig Deep To Deny England A Dublin Grand Slam|date=18 March 2017|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=25 March 2017}} He was also selected in the squad for the 2017 Summer Tour against the United States and Japan.{{cite news|url=http://munsterrugby.ie/2017/05/16/schmidt-includes-9-munster-players-for-summer-tour/|title=Schmidt Includes 9 Munster Players For Summer Tour|date=16 May 2017|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=16 May 2017}} He came off the bench against the United States on 10 June, scoring a try in Ireland's 55–19 win.{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/39930.php|title=Earls Excels As Ireland Kick Off Tour With New Jersey Win|date=11 June 2017|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=9 October 2017}} He also started in the first test against Japan on 17 June, but a knee injury ruled him out of the second test.{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/rugby/fixturesandresults/39976.php|title=Strong Start Sets Ireland Up For Well-Earned Victory|date=17 June 2017|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=9 October 2017}}{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/2017/06/22/starts-for-conway-earls-ryan-against-japan/|title=Starts For Conway, Earls & Ryan Against Japan|date=22 June 2017|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=9 October 2017}}

After a four-year absence due to his move to play for Racing 92 in France, Zebo returned to the Ireland squad when he was selected by head coach Andy Farrell for the 2021 Autumn internationals.{{cite news|url=https://www.the42.ie/ireland-squad-november-2021-5579374-Oct2021/|title=Zebo back in Ireland squad as uncapped Frawley and Sheehan called up|date=20 October 2021|work=The42|access-date=23 October 2021}}

British & Irish Lions

Zebo was called up the 2013 British & Irish Lions tour to Australia squad as injury-cover for Ireland teammate Tommy Bowe on 8 June 2013.{{cite news|url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/news/28139.php#.WdtMfviGPcs|title=Zebo 'Over The Moon' With Lions Call-Up|date=9 June 2013|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=9 June 2013}} He started against Waratahs on 15 June 2013.{{cite news|url=https://www.lionsrugby.com/historic-report/?FixGuid=12NB5921|title=Halfpenny Is Record Breaking Hero|date=15 June 2013|work=Lions Rugby|access-date=16 June 2013}} Zebo came off the bench against Brumbies on 18 June 2013.{{cite news|url=https://www.lionsrugby.com/historic-report/?FixGuid=12BB3556|title=Brumbies Make History As They Take Lions' Record|date=18 June 2013|work=Lions Rugby|access-date=18 June 2013}} He started against Melbourne Rebels on 25 June 2013.{{cite news|url=https://www.lionsrugby.com/historic-report/?FixGuid=12MB0823|title=Five Try Boost Ahead of Second Test|date=25 June 2013|work=Lions Rugby|access-date=25 June 2013}}

Retirement as player

Zebo announced on 21 May 2024 that he would be retiring at the end of the season.{{cite news |last1=Skippers |first1=David |title=‘It’s been some craic’ – Munster and Ireland favourite Simon Zebo calls time on illustrious career |url=https://www.planetrugby.com/news/its-been-some-craic-munster-and-ireland-favourite-simon-zebo-calls-time-on-illustrious-career |access-date=21 May 2024 |publisher=Planet Rugby |date=21 May 2024}}

Statistics

=International tries=

class="wikitable sortable" style="font-size:95%"
TryOpposing teamLocationVenueCompetitionDateResult
1{{ru|ARG}}DublinAviva Stadium2012 November Tests{{dts|format=dmy|2012|November|24}}Won
2{{ru|WAL}}CardiffMillennium Stadium2013 Six Nations{{dts|format=dmy|2013|February|2}}Won
3{{ru|ARG}}TucumánEstadio Monumental José Fierro2014 Ireland Tour{{dts|format=dmy|2014|June|14}}Won
4{{ru|GEO}}DublinAviva Stadium2014 November Tests{{dts|format=dmy|2014|November|16}}Won
5{{ru|AUS}}DublinAviva Stadium2014 November Tests{{dts|format=dmy|2014|November|22}}Won
6{{ru|WAL}}CardiffMillennium Stadium2015 RWC warm-up{{dts|format=dmy|2015|August|8}}Won
7{{ru|SCO}}DublinAviva Stadium2015 RWC warm-up{{dts|format=dmy|2015|August|15}}Won
8{{ru|NZL}}ChicagoSoldier Field2016 November Tests{{dts|format=dmy|2016|November|5}}Won
9{{ru|USA}}HarrisonRed Bull Arena2017 Summer Tests{{dts|format=dmy|2017|June|10}}Won

=International analysis by opposition=

class="sortable wikitable" style="text-align: center;"
Against

! Played

! Won

! Lost

! Drawn

! Tries

! Points

! % Won

bgcolor="#d0ffd0" align="center"
align="left" | {{ru|ARG}}3300210{{#expr:3/3*100 round 2}}
align="left" | {{ru|AUS}}220015{{#expr:2/2*100 round 2}}
align="left" | {{ru|CAN}}110000{{#expr:1/1*100 round 2}}
align="left" | {{ru|ENG}}523000{{#expr:2/5*100 round 2}}
align="left" | {{ru|FRA}}220000{{#expr:2/2*100 round 2}}
align="left" | {{ru|GEO}}110015{{#expr:1/1*100 round 2}}
align="left" | {{ru|ITA}}440000{{#expr:4/4*100 round 2}}
align="left" | {{ru|JPN}}110000{{#expr:1/1*100 round 2}}
align="left" | {{ru|NZ}}312015{{#expr:1/3*100 round 2}}
align="left" | {{ru|ROM}}110000{{#expr:1/1*100 round 2}}
align="left" | {{ru|SCO}}321015{{#expr:2/3*100 round 2}}
align="left" | {{ru|RSA}}211000{{#expr:1/2*100 round 2}}
align="left" | {{ru|USA}}220015{{#expr:2/2*100 round 2}}
align="left" | {{ru|WAL}}5221210{{#expr:2/5*100 round 2}}
class="sortbottom"

! Total

352591945{{#expr:25/35*100 round 2}}

Correct as of 5 July 2017[http://en.espn.co.uk/statsguru/rugby/player/114227.html?class=1;template=results;type=player Simon Zebo], ESPN Scrum, 5 July 2017

Honours

=Presentation Brothers College=

=Cork Constitution=

=Munster=

=Ireland Under-20s=

=Ireland=

Personal life

Zebo is the son of a Martinique-born French athlete, Arthur and his Irish wife, Cork-born Lynda.{{cite news|url=http://www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/sport/2012/0608/1224317499994.html|title=Debut Delight: Zebo still smiling|date=8 June 2012|newspaper=The Irish Times|access-date=3 February 2013}} His older sister, Jessika Zebo, is a project co-ordinator who has represented Ireland as a hurdler.{{cite news|url=http://www.eaglesflight.ie/ef/index.cfm/blog/introducing-jessika-zebo-our-new-project-coordinator/|title=Introducing Jessika Zebo|work=Eagle's Flight|access-date=3 February 2013}} In May 2015, Zebo and his partner Elvira Fernández welcomed their first child, a son named Jacob. Their daughter, Sofia, was born in August 2016, their second son, Noah, was born in November 2019,{{cite news|url=https://www.irishexaminer.com/lifestyle/arid-30965009.html|title=Simon Zebo welcomes third child with hospital snap on Twitter|date=18 November 2019|work=Irish Examiner|access-date=23 August 2021}} and their second daughter, Isabella, was born in April 2022.{{cite news|url=https://www.rsvplive.ie/news/celebs/rugby-star-simon-zebo-fiance-26773859|title=Rugby star Simon Zebo and fiancée Elvira Fernandez welcome fourth child together|date=22 April 2022|work=RSVP Live|access-date=23 April 2022}} The couple married in August 2022.{{cite news|url=https://www.irishmirror.ie/sport/rugby-union/inside-simon-zebos-intimate-kerry-27695399|title=Inside Simon Zebo's intimate Kerry wedding as he ties knot to Elvira Fernandez|date=9 August 2022|work=Irish Mirror|access-date=4 September 2022}}

References

{{reflist|3}}

External links

  • [https://www.racing92.fr/joueur/simon-zebo_e550831 Racing 92 Profile]
  • [https://munsterrugby.ie/player?PlayGuid=SZ896049 Munster Profile]
  • [https://www.lionsrugby.com/player/?PlayGuid=SZ896049 British & Irish Lions Profile]
  • [https://www.irishrugby.ie/player/?PlayGuid=SZ896049 Ireland Profile]
  • {{EPCR profile|SZ896049}}
  • [https://www.unitedrugby.com/clubs/munster/simon-zebo URC Profile]
  • [https://www.sixnationsrugby.com/player/?PlayGuid=SZ896049&TeamId=1875 U20 Six Nations Profile]
  • {{Sport links}}

{{Munster Rugby squad}}

{{British and Irish Lions 2013}}

{{Ireland 2015 Rugby World Cup squad}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Zebo, Simon}}

Category:1990 births

Category:Living people

Category:Black Irish sportspeople

Category:21st-century Irish sportsmen

Category:Irish people of Martiniquais descent

Category:Association footballers from Cork (city)

Category:Men's association football players not categorized by position

Category:Association football players not categorized by nationality

Category:Blackrock National Hurling Club hurlers

Category:Irish rugby union players

Category:Rugby union players from Cork (city)

Category:People educated at Presentation Brothers College, Cork

Category:Cork Constitution players

Category:Munster Rugby players

Category:Racing 92 players

Category:Ireland international rugby union players

Category:Ireland Wolfhounds international rugby union players

Category:British & Irish Lions rugby union players from Ireland

Category:2015 Rugby World Cup players

Category:Rugby union fullbacks

Category:Rugby union wings

Category:Irish expatriate rugby union players in France