‘Door slammed shut’ – Stuart Hogg’s Gallagher Prem return plans collapse
Rugby NewsTuesday, 14 October 2025 at 12:49
Former Scotland fullback Stuart Hogg has been left disappointed after hopes of a move back to England — and a possible reunion with former coach Gregor Townsend — was rejected by Newcastle Red Bulls.
RUCK understands that Hogg, currently out of contract with Montpellier next summer, had reached out to contacts in England as he explores options to return closer to his children in Scotland.
However, despite sounding out interest and making tentative approaches, including to Townsend — who recently joined the Red Bulls in an advisory capacity — the club are understood to have decided against offering the 100-cap international a contract.
“The conversations didn’t go anywhere,” a source told RUCK. “Gregor’s role is strategic and the club’s looking forward, not back. They’ve been clear they don’t want the distraction.”
Townsend’s new role at Red Bulls
The Scotland head coach was recently confirmed as a part-time strategic consultant for Red Bull’s new rugby project, working roughly 30 days a year alongside his national duties.
The revamped Premiership outfit — formerly Newcastle Falcons — has undergone a total rebrand under Red Bull ownership, with Alan Dickens appointed as head coach and Neil McIlroy overseeing rugby operations.
While Townsend’s appointment has created intrigue among Scottish fans, insiders insist his influence on player recruitment is limited.
“Gregor’s there to offer vision and advice across the Red Bull network,” one rugby executive told RUCK. “He’s not in the business of handing out lifelines to former players.”
Reputation rebuild backfires
Hogg, who retired in 2023 before briefly joining Montpellier, had been hoping to reset his image after a difficult 12 months off the field.
In late 2024 he pleaded guilty to domestic abuse against his ex-partner, Gillian Hogg, at Selkirk Sheriff Court. His behaviour included tracking her movements and sending distressing messages. He was handed a community payback order with one year of supervision and a five-year non-harassment order.
While the sheriff later noted Hogg’s “complete compliance” with supervision, his attempts at public explanation drew sharp criticism.
An interview with
The Rugby Paper, intended to mark the start of a comeback, backfired when The Mail ran with the headline: “Shamed rugby star Stuart Hogg blasted for blaming drink and anti-depressants for behaviour.”
Dr Marsha Scott, CEO of Scottish Women’s Aid, condemned Hogg’s comments, saying:
“Mr Hogg was convicted of domestic abuse against his former partner, and we are all too familiar with the pattern of perpetrators attempting to minimise or justify their abusive behaviour.
But domestic abuse is always a choice, and the responsibility lies solely with the perpetrator.
Any attempt to minimise domestic abuse in public narratives can be deeply harmful, undermining survivors’ experiences and making it harder for others to seek support.
It is vital that reporting and commentary on such cases recognise the reality and seriousness of domestic abuse and centre the voices and safety of the women and children who are affected by it.”
EDITORS PICKS:
Rugby Referee Worth £39M: Wealthiest Rugby Stars (Ranked 10–1)
In this list, we rank the 10 wealthiest rugby stars and personalities in 2025, showcasing how their dedication to the sport—and beyond—has turned into serious wealth.
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10. Beau Ryan (Rugby League) – £7M
Transitioning from Rugby League to a television presenting career, Beau Ryan’s ventures and media work have made him highly lucrative, with reports suggesting a net worth near R200 million.
9. Nigel Owens (Wales, Referee) – £8M
Legendary international referee Nigel Owens built his fortune from refereeing, media work, and public appearances, becoming one of the most respected figures in rugby.
8. Dan Carter (New Zealand) – £15M
All Blacks fly-half Dan Carter reached £15M through international and club contracts, as well as endorsements.
7. Richie McCaw (New Zealand) – £15M
All Blacks legend Richie McCaw earned his wealth from an illustrious rugby career, endorsements, and business activities.
6. Francois Pienaar (South Africa) – £15M
1995 World Cup-winning captain Pienaar has a net worth of £15M, accumulated from his rugby career and post-retirement business ventures.
5. Bryan Habana (South Africa) – £15M
The Springboks speedster earned his wealth through a stellar playing career, endorsements, and media appearances.
4. Sonny Bill Williams (New Zealand) – £20M
Williams has combined his rugby and boxing careers with endorsements and business projects to reach a substantial net worth.
3. Jonny Wilkinson (England) – £21M
The 2003 Rugby World Cup hero has a net worth of £21M, earned through his playing career, media appearances, and business ventures.
2. Mike Tindall (England) – £25M
Former England international, Tindall has built his fortune through media work, endorsements, and royal family connections, being married to Zara Phillips, granddaughter of Queen Elizabeth II.
1. Simon McDowell (Ireland) – £39.3M
Former rugby referee and chemical mogul, McDowell amassed his wealth through his company Kilwaughter Minerals, a leading producer of lime-based products.
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- Jordie Barrett over Damian de Allende is far from being correct. The hype around Dupont is also overreaching, he's probably 4th in the world and has been since the 2023 WC. He also avoids certain matchups which is strange. The rest of the list is pretty good apart from minor subjective biases.JasonMarlow16-09-2026
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