Fehi Fineanganofo's future decided after agreement with Red Bulls on new NZR deal
Hurricanes breakout star and All Black debutant Fehi Fineanganofo’s future has been decided after coming to terms with a new deal with NZR.
The 24-year-old has signed a one-year extension until the end of 2027 that will see the winger stay in New Zealand with Bay of Plenty and the Hurricanes.
The Newcastle Red Bulls agreed to re-worked terms to allow Fineanganofo to stay an extra year to make a case to play for the All Blacks at next year’s Rugby World Cup in Australia.
Newcastle Red Bulls’ sporting general manager Neil McIlroy said the club was supportive of his World Cup ambitions, which led to a reworked deal.
“We are fully supportive of Fehi’s desire to represent his country at Rugby World Cup 2027, which marries with our own philosophy of aiming high and enabling our athletes to achieve their ambitions.
“Fehi’s arrival in 2027, with additional international experience that will only add to his already-devastating qualities as a top-class winger, is another statement of intent around where this club is going.
“We are more than happy with the quality and depth that our existing squad possesses, but may yet choose to add to the outside back position if a player of the required standard becomes available.”
Fineanganofo will still join the Red Bulls on a three-year deal from 2027-29 at the conclusion of the Rugby World Cup.
“I’m excited to be staying in New Zealand with the Hurricanes for next season,” the winger said.
“I’m proud of what we achieved last season, and I’m looking forward to helping defend the Super Rugby title while continuing to put my hand up for the All Blacks ahead of the Rugby World Cup.”
“The opportunity to stay in New Zealand and push for selection for the Rugby World Cup means a huge amount, and I’m fully committed to joining the club after the tournament and giving everything I can to the team.”
NZR General Manager Professional Rugby Relationships Simon Simmers added that the solution works for all parties.
“We are pleased to have reached a positive resolution for Fehi and look forward to seeing him continue playing his rugby in New Zealand through 2027 and chasing his dream of playing at a Rugby World Cup.”
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