South Africa’s two-time World Cup winning prop Steven Kitshoff will leave Ulster at the end of the season.
Kitshoff joined Ulster in October after helping South Africa win their second straight World Cup.
The 32-year-old signed a three-year deal, but Ulster say they have “mutually agreed” to draw his contract to a close.
Kitshoff is set to re-sign for the Stormers, having left the Cape Town club to join Ulster.
“Since arriving in Belfast, I have really enjoyed my time in the Ulster jersey, and it’s been a privilege to be a part of such a great group of players and support staff,” he said.
“Ulster will always have a place in my heart, and I’m grateful to the supporters that welcomed me to a club and province that is undoubtedly a very special place.”
Kitshoff has played 12 times for Ulster, having made his debut against Glasgow in November.
He has won 83 caps for the Springboks and started last year’s World Cup final win over New Zealand at loose-head prop.
He will be the latest significant departure at Ulster, with head coach Dan McFarland and chief executive Jonny Petrie leaving in recent weeks.
On the playing side, fly-half Billy Burns will also leave at the end of the season to join Munster after six years at Ulster.
