Former Aussie Rules player Max Hicks signs for Newcastle Red Bulls

As first revealed in Fissler Confidential earlier this month, Perpignan’s Max Hicks will join Newcastle Red Bulls in the summer, with the 6 foot 6 forward arriving on a two-year deal.

The 26-year-old Kiwi plays back row or lock, with the Maori All Black cap currently in his second season with the Catalan club.

Auckland-born Hicks played Super Rugby for the Highlanders and NPC rugby for Tasman prior to joining Perpignan in 2024, representing the Maori All Blacks in their narrow defeat to Ireland in 2022.

As well as his rugby prowess the North Shore native has represented New Zealand at Australian Rules Football, and is relishing the prospect of his summer switch to Tyneside.

“I’m really excited by the opportunity to sign with the Newcastle Red Bulls,” said Hicks.

“I’m looking forward to getting my feet on the ground and being part of an exciting future for the club.”

Sporting general manager Neil McIlroy said: “Max is very well thought of at Perpignan and brings a fabulous skill set.

“He’s an athletic forward with an outstanding aerial game, as you’d expect with his Aussie Rules background, and he’s quick across the ground for such a big guy.

“He can operate in a number of roles across the back five of the forward pack, and he has been playing to a high level for a number of years now.”

Hicks is the third Kiwi to sign for the Red Bulls in the past month, following on from Hoskins Sotutu and Hurricanes pair, prop Pouri Rakete-Stones and wing Fehi Fineanganofo.