Scotland coach Gregor Townsend joins Newcastle Red Bulls with immediate effect

Wales face a big opener vs Argentina but have a strong chance to top this pool. Samoa adds intrigue as the dark horse.

The 52‑year‑old, who recently signed an extension keeping him with Scotland until the end of the 2027 World Cup in Australia, will dedicate 30 days a year to Red Bull’s global rugby strategy in a non‑executive capacity according to the BBC.

Townsend has led Scotland since 2017 and had been linked with Newcastle’s director of rugby role before committing to his new Scotland contract.

The arrangement with Red Bull was agreed alongside his contract renewal and has the full backing of the Scottish Rugby Union. His 30 days with Red Bull will be scheduled outside of international windows, ensuring his national team focus remains undiluted. Safeguards are in place to prevent any conflict of interest with his work for Edinburgh and Glasgow Warriors.

Newcastle become the first rugby union club to join Red Bull’s portfolio. The Austria‑based company already has strong sporting interests in football, motorsport and winter sports.

Scottish Rugby believe Townsend’s access to Red Bull’s sporting operation will bring benefits to his work with the national team. The idea of a third professional Scottish team — or closer links to an English side — has been discussed, but no formal dialogue has yet taken place.

A source close to the union said: "Gregor is a knowledge fiend who has always tried to learn from different sport in different parts of the world. This is just a continuation of that.

"He's scratching a development itch and the SRU will get the benefits of it with a connection with a giant sporting brand."

With the new six-pool format confirmed, here’s a projected draw based on current World Rugby Rankings — with Wales sitting in Band 2.

South Africa (Band 1) — Reigning World Champions, famed for their physical dominance and tactical brilliance.

Australia (Band 2) — Rugby hosts with a rich history and a passionate home crowd.

Japan (Band 3) — High-paced attackers who stunned the world in 2019.

Portugal (Band 4) — Rising force in European rugby, known for their scrappy determination.

? Storyline: South Africa vs Australia could be a World Cup final preview — Portugal and Japan will battle for third place.

Ireland (Band 1) — Consistently at the top of world rugby, masters of strategic play.

Scotland (Band 2) — Brave and battle-hardened, with a history of giant-killing performances.

Spain (Band 3) — Emerging side bringing flair and unpredictability.

Romania (Band 4) — Rugby stalwarts with physical forward packs.

? Storyline: Ireland and Scotland renew their rivalry in a high-stakes pool. Spain could cause an upset.

New Zealand (Band 1) — The All Blacks, rugby royalty with speed, skill, and killer instinct.

Fiji (Band 2) — Fijian flair and athleticism make them dangerous in any matchup.

USA (Band 3) — Big, athletic squad with growing ambitions.

Hong Kong China (Band 4) — Developing team looking to make an impact on the world stage.

? Storyline: Expect fireworks between New Zealand and Fiji; USA and Hong Kong will battle for the third spot.

France (Band 1) — World Cup hosts in 2023, dynamic attackers, crowd favourites.

Italy (Band 2) — Tough, resilient side with big scrummaging power.

Tonga (Band 3) — Physical, passionate, unpredictable warriors.

Canada (Band 4) — Experienced team, looking to build consistency.

? Storyline: France should lead this pool, but Tonga’s unpredictability makes this one dangerous.

England (Band 1) — Powerful, well-drilled side with a deep tactical playbook.

Georgia (Band 2) — Known for a dominant forward pack and fierce defence.

Uruguay (Band 3) — South American fighters with resilience to match their passion.

Zimbabwe (Band 4) — Underdogs aiming to shock the world.

? Storyline: England’s depth makes them favourites, but Georgia could make it interesting.

Argentina (Band 1) — Tough, skilled, and battle-tested with World Cup pedigree.

Wales (Band 2) — Six Nations contenders with a blend of power and precision.

Chile (Band 3) — South American dark horse making their mark.

Samoa (Band 4) — Fierce underdogs with a proud history and attacking flair.

? Storyline: