Newcastle push back Fineanganofo's arrival as he chases All Blacks World Cup dream

Newcastle Red Bulls have agreed to postpone the arrival of All Blacks wing Fehi Fineanganofo, allowing him to remain in New Zealand and pursue a place in the national squad for the 2027 Rugby World Cup.

The 24-year-old had signed a two-year deal with Newcastle back in January, originally set to begin this season. However, his outstanding form for the Wellington-based Hurricanes in Super Rugby pushed him into international contention, and he made his All Blacks debut against France in July.

Under All Blacks selection rules, moving to an overseas club this year would have ended his international prospects and ruled him out of the World Cup. As a result, Newcastle agreed to let him stay with the Hurricanes for an additional season. Fineanganofo set a Super Rugby record this year for the most tries scored in a single campaign.

His contract with Newcastle remains a two-year deal, but it will now cover the 2027-28 and 2028-29 seasons instead.

A compromise for both sides

Fineanganofo said he was grateful to Newcastle for their support and understanding, adding that the chance to stay in New Zealand and push for World Cup selection meant a great deal to him. He confirmed he remains fully committed to joining the club once the tournament ends.

Newcastle's sporting general manager, Neil McIlroy, said the club fully supports Fineanganofo's ambition to represent his country, describing it as consistent with the club's philosophy of helping athletes achieve their goals.

The agreement ends months of uncertainty over the player's future. In June, New Zealand Rugby denied trying to arrange an early release from his Newcastle contract, and just weeks ago head coach Dan McFarland had said he still expected Fineanganofo to arrive in November.

Newcastle currently field Werner Kok and 35-year-old Christian Wade as their first-choice wings. The club opened its Premiership season with a 59-26 defeat away to defending champions Northampton.