Newcastle sign giant Chiefs lock as Red Bulls spending continues
Newcastle sign giant Chiefs lock as Red Bulls spending continues
Exeter Chiefs and England A star Rusi Tuima has been confirmed as the latest signing for Newcastle Red Bulls, as they continue to bolster their squad in an effort to turn their current fortunes around.
The 6’5″ second or back-rower will arrive in the summer of 2026 on a two-year deal, joining from Exeter Chiefs, where he has scored 20 tries in 74 games.
The Fijian-born forward moved to the UK at four years of age, before being picked up by Exeter’s academy, and eventually breaking into the first team.
Tuima has also represented England at U18s, 20s and ‘A’ levels, and is renowned for his uncompromising physicality. At still only 25 years of age, he will be hoping to make a huge impact when he arrives at Newcastle.
A physical player with big ambitions
Newcastle Red Bulls sporting general manager Neil McIlroy said: “Rusi has a well-deserved reputation around the Gallagher PREM as somebody who loves the physical aspects of the game.
“He has got a big frame which he uses to good effect, and I’m sure our supporters will enjoy his ball-carrying and big hits.
“He has come through the national pathway and earned his England A cap last season, and it’s great that he sees Newcastle as a stage where he can really push on and achieve his personal ambitions.”
Tuima added: “I’m hugely excited to rip into what the Newcastle Red Bulls have already started building. It’s such an exciting project. Newcastle is always a tough place to come and play, so I’m looking forward to adding to that.
“Whilst I’m looking forward to calling Newcastle home and getting stuck in at Kingston Park, I’m also incredibly grateful to the Exeter Chiefs players, coaches and supporters for providing the amazing opportunities to represent my boyhood club – memories that I and my family will cherish forever.”
Tuima will join other stars, such as Argentina lock Franco Molina at the club, alongside current Chiefs teammate Josh Hodge, and All Blacks international Hoskins Sotutu.
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