New All Blacks recruit Fehi Fineanganofo had been announced as a new signing for the Newcastle Red Bulls for the start of the 26/27 PREM season.
After some intervention from the NZRU, his situation is unclear, with the player himself saying “I actually don’t know” when asked about his current contract situation.
He also said that he would leave the situation up to the agents to work out. By this comment, there may still be he is PREM bound after the summer series.
What has happened between Fehi Fineanganofo and Newcastle Red Bulls?
In January, it was announced that the 23-year-old would be joining the Newcastle Red Bulls this summer at the conclusion of the 2026 Super Rugby season. The former New Zealand sevens player wasn’t close to the All Blacks reckoning at the start of the year, and the move made sense for both the club and the player.
The 2026 Super Rugby season has been a record-breaking one for Fineanganofo, who has broken the record for the most tries in a single Super Rugby season. He broke this record with a try in the Super Rugby final win over the Chiefs.
This incredible form forced the All Blacks and NZRU to intervene. The All Blacks eligibility rules meant that if Fineanganofo were to move to England, he would be ineligible for international selection.
The NZRU have been accused of interfering with the situation, but they have denied this.
The winger has said that he would love to stay in New Zealand, but if he doesn’t get the contract sorted out, he will honour his agreement with Newcastle Red Bulls.
What could happen next?
Fineanganofo has been selected for the All Blacks squad that will play in the Rugby Nations Championship. David Rennie could put thie player in a difficult situation if he hands the player his debut and offers him a chance in the Black Jersey going forward.
It is also unknown what the consequences would be if Fineanganofo were to go back on his contract with the Red Bulls. Would they be able to legally challenge the decision or would they be left on the hunt for a new star winger.
