Newcastle Red Bulls have officially confirmed the signing of Canada international Mason Flesch until the end of the season.
The 26-cap international arrives from Major League Rugby side Chicago Hounds, where he has played since 2024.
Able to feature at lock or in the back row, Flesch was named Major League Rugby’s ‘Forward of the Season’ for 2026 after scoring ten tries in 11 appearances.
That included a try in the final as Chicago defeated California Legion to claim the league title.
His arrival marks the first time a Canadian player has joined a PREM Rugby club since Evan Olmstead represented Newcastle in 2019.
Flesch becomes the 25th signing of the season for Red Bulls, who have undergone a major squad overhaul following Red Bull's investment and the rebrand from Falcons to Red Bulls.
Results have yet to fully reflect that progress, with Newcastle showing signs of improvement across their opening three PREM Rugby fixtures but still searching for their first win of the campaign.
The Canadian will join a back row featuring international talent, including Max Hicks and Hoskins Sotutu, who have represented the Maori All Blacks and New Zealand All Blacks respectively.
The move also offers Flesch the chance to gain valuable experience at the highest level ahead of the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia.
Canada will face Argentina, Fiji and Spain in the pool stages, with a third-place finish likely to represent a successful campaign given the strength of their opposition.
The tournament could also see Flesch come up against fellow Newcastle signing Franco Molina, who represents Argentina at international level.
Newcastle head coach Dan McFarland said: “Mason has been a stand-out performer in Major League Rugby and for his country, and deserves this opportunity.
“He is a great athlete who will add depth to a very competitive area of our squad, and I look forward to working with him in our environment.”
Flesch, who arrived on Tyneside this week, said: “I’m incredibly excited to be a part of this team.
“I’m looking forward to being involved with a quality full-time organisation, and most importantly very eager to train and help push standards.”
