The Telegraph
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Newcastle Red Bulls Unveil Four Blockbuster Signings — All Blacks Star Joins, More Expected
? Hoskins Sotutu — All Blacks‑Capped Loose Forward
• Position: No.8 / Flanker
• From: Blues (Super Rugby Pacific)
• International: 14 caps for the All Blacks
“I am excited to be committing to Newcastle Red Bulls’ project moving forward, and coming to compete in the Gallagher PREM week in, week out… The club made it clear to me how ambitious they are, and I am looking forward to getting started.” — Hoskins Sotutu
This is a statement signing. Sotutu’s arrival adds top‑tier physicality and linebreak threat at No.8, instantly elevating Red Bulls’ contestability in the pack. His words emphasise that he sees something ambitious in Newcastle’s project — testament to the club’s upward momentum.
? Josh Hodge — Dynamic Full‑Back / Returnee
• Position: Full‑back / Wing
• From: Exeter Chiefs
• England A representative
“There is a lot of unfinished business for me in Newcastle, and with Red Bull coming in it’s exciting times for the club. I can't wait to see what we can do over the next three seasons… I cannot wait to be back playing in front of the northern crowd.” — Josh Hodge
Hodge’s return isn’t just about ability — it’s symbolic. A homegrown academy product, he brings pace, attacking threat and accuracy in the back three. His excitement at the club’s trajectory suggests he believes Newcastle can be more than relegation fodder.
? Franco Molina — Experienced Argentina Lock
• Position: Lock
• From: Western Force / Exeter Chiefs
• Pumas international
“I'm incredibly honoured to be joining Newcastle Red Bulls… After my conversation with Jonny Petrie and Neil McIlroy it is obvious that this is a really exciting time to be involved with the club, and I cannot wait for what is to come. I’m looking forward to meeting my team‑mates and achieving something special there.” — Franco Molina
Molina isn’t a flashy signing, but he’s a seasoned competitor with Test experience and physicality up front. His comments reflect enthusiasm for the project, and his set‑piece strength should help solidify the pack.
? Rusi Tuima — England‑Qualified Forward
• Position: Lock / Back Row
• From: Exeter Chiefs
• England Under‑20 / England A experience
“Rusi has a well‑deserved reputation around the Gallagher PREM as somebody who loves the physical aspects of the game… he sees Newcastle as a stage where he can really push on and achieve his personal ambitions.” — Neil McIlroy, Newcastle sporting general manager
“I’m hugely excited to rip into what the Newcastle Red Bulls have already started building… I’m looking forward to adding to that.”
— Rusi Tuima
Tuima adds rugged energy and versatility across second row or back row. His enthusiasm for the club’s vision and drive to contribute to a rebuild makes him an excellent fit — a solid foil to the bigger marquee names.
