Newcastle Red Bulls: Signing spree continues as English-qualified Super Rugby stalwart arrives from Australia
Newcastle Red Bulls sign Fergus Lee-Warner from the Waratahs.
Newcastle Red Bulls have continued their recruitment drive after announcing the signing of English-qualified forward Fergus Lee-Warner who arrives from the Waratahs.
The 31-year-old lock/back-row, who made his name at the Western Force during the early part of his career, is swapping the Sydney Harbour Bridge for the Tyne Bridge.
He joins the Prem club from the Super Rugby Pacific side on a one-year deal.
Faced the Lions
Lee-Warner recently played for the Waratahs against the British & Irish Lions, signing for the Sydney-based side after a season and a half at Bath, whom he joined after a short spell with Worcester Warriors.
Director of rugby Steve Diamond spoke of his delight at bringing the Aussie back to the club, saying: “Fergus will add physicality and experience to our forward pack.
“He’s a great line-out option who knows the English league, and has been playing at a consistently high level.
“Having brought him to Worcester I know what he will add to our environment, and it’ll be great to get him over here when he arrives around mid-September.”
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Lee-Warner said: “I couldn’t be more excited to return to the Premiership.
“I’m incredibly grateful to Dimes for reaching out – especially after our time together at Worcester Warriors was cut short.
“I can’t wait to get stuck in with the fellas, work hard and soak up as much as I can when I arrive. With the quality squad that Dimes is putting together, I feel truly fortunate to be a part of it.
New chapter
“I hope to bring a strong work ethic, a positive attitude and a willingness to do the hard yards – on and off the field.
“I’m really looking forward to stepping into this new chapter at Newcastle, meeting all the supporters and embracing everything that lies ahead.”
The Lee-Warner deal follows hot on the footsteps of Newcastle Red Bulls announcing the signings of Tom Christie, Simon Benitez Cruz and Amanaki Mafi ahead of 2025/26.