Fehi Fineanganofo Delays Newcastle Move To Stay In NZ Through 2027 World Cup

All Blacks winger Fehi Fineanganofo has secured an agreement with New Zealand Rugby and English club Newcastle Red Bulls to delay his move to the Premiership side, allowing him to stay in New Zealand through the 2027 Rugby World Cup.

The 24-year-old winger was originally scheduled to join Newcastle following the 2026 NPC season after signing a two-year contract in January. However, a standout breakout season that saw him score 17 tries during the Hurricanes’ title-winning campaign changed his trajectory entirely. That performance equalled Josh Moorby’s franchise record as Wellington claimed their first championship since 2016.

Contract Negotiations and the Road to the 2027 World Cup

While earlier discussions had generated considerable debate—with New Zealand Rugby maintaining a stance that it does not buy players out of contracts—the governing body ultimately intervened to negotiate an exit from the initial Newcastle deal. Under the revised arrangement, Fineanganofo will remain in New Zealand through the conclusion of the 2027 World Cup before heading north to play for Newcastle from late 2027 through 2029.

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Fineanganofo made his Test debut off the bench in a 34-32 victory over France in Christchurch. Though a shoulder injury sidelined him for subsequent matches against Italy and Ireland, he returned for two tour fixtures in South Africa.

Fehi Fineanganofo in action against the Lions. Photo / Photosport — Photo: NZ Herald

“I’m excited to be staying in New Zealand with the Hurricanes next season. I am proud of what we achieved last season and I’m looking forward to helping defend the Super Rugby title while putting my hand up for the All Blacks ahead of the World Cup.”

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Fehi Fineanganofo, Hurricanes winger

Club and Franchise Responses to the Agreement

Hurricanes coach Clark Laidlaw welcomed the retention of his star back for another domestic campaign, highlighting the tremendous value of his ongoing presence in Wellington.

“It’s great news for the Hurricanes that Fehi will be in New Zealand for another season. The opportunity for him to play for us in 2027 is something we’re really excited about. He has obviously had an amazing season in 2026 by winning Super Rugby Pacific, breaking the try-scoring record, and being selected for the All Blacks.”

Clark Laidlaw, Hurricanes Head Coach

Meanwhile, Newcastle Red Bulls sporting general manager Neil McIlroy confirmed that the English club fully supported the decision, noting that it aligned with the organization’s broader ambitions for developing elite talent.

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Immediate Playing Schedule and Selection Outlook

Before any international fixtures arrive, Fineanganofo is slated to suit up for Bay of Plenty in their final regular-season match against North Harbour after being released alongside 13 other All Blacks.

Fehi Fineanganofo Delays Newcastle Move To Stay In NZ Through 2027 World Cup — Photo: Sport Nation

Attention now turns to whether the winger will earn a place in Dave Rennie’s 34-man squad for the upcoming two-test Bledisloe Cup series against Australia.