Newcastle Red Bulls have agreed to delay the arrival of prolific All Blacks winger Fehi Fineanganofo, allowing him to pursue his dream of competing in the Rugby World Cup.
The 24-year-old initially agreed to a two-year deal with Newcastle starting this season, as announced in January.
However, his exceptional form with the Hurricanes in Super Rugby propelled him into international contention.
He made his New Zealand debut against France in July.
Moving overseas this year would have frozen his emerging international career and ruled him out of the 2027 Rugby World Cup, which begins in October, due to All Blacks selection rules.
Consequently, Newcastle permitted Fineanganofo to remain with the Hurricanes for an additional season, during which he broke the record for the most tries in a single Super Rugby campaign.
His Newcastle contract remains for two campaigns, now covering the 2027-28 and 2028-29 seasons.
“I’m incredibly grateful to Newcastle Red Bulls for their support and understanding,” Fineanganofo stated.
“Staying in New Zealand to push for World Cup selection means a great deal to me, and I am fully committed to joining the club after the tournament and giving everything to the team.”
Newcastle sporting GM Neil McIlroy stated, “We fully support Fehi’s desire to represent New Zealand at the 2027 Rugby World Cup, which aligns with our philosophy of aiming high and helping athletes achieve their ambitions.”
“Fehi’s arrival in 2027, bolstered by additional international experience, will only enhance his already devastating qualities as a top-class winger, demonstrating the direction this club is heading.”
The compromise ends the long-running uncertainty surrounding Fineanganofo’s future.
In June, New Zealand Rugby denied attempting to broker a deal to release Fineanganofo from his Newcastle contract.
Just weeks ago, head coach Dan McFarland expected Fineanganofo to arrive in November for the current campaign.
Newcastle began the Premiership season with former Ulster player Werner Kok, signed in June amid growing doubts over the move, and 35-year-old Christian Wade as their first-choice wingers.
McIlroy left the door open to adding more options in that position.
“We are very happy with the quality and depth of our current squad, but may still add to the outside back position if a player of the required standard becomes available,” he said.
Newcastle lost 59-26 away to defending champions Northampton in their league opener on Friday and will host Leicester on Saturday.
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