Newcastle Red Bulls become Super Rugby star's third PREM club

Versatile forward Fergus Lee-Warner has become Newcastle Red Bulls’ latest signing, with the English-qualified player set to join from NSW Waratahs in September, ahead of the 2025/26 Gallagher PREM season.

The 6’4, 113kg forward, who can play lock or back-row, has agreed a one-year deal with the cashed-up Northerners.

Lee-Warner, who started his pro career at the Western Force, will be reunited with Steve Diamond, under whom he briefly played at Worcester before the club went bust.

That prompted a move to Bath, where the tough-tackling Lee-Warner was a popular figure before he returned home to join the ‘Tahs after 18 months in the West Country.

Lee-Warner’s 2025 season was disrupted by a foot injury, but he featured for the Waratahs against the British and Irish Lions.

Diamond spoke of his delight at bringing the Aussie back to the Gallagher PREM, 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.”

Known for his hard work ethic, Lee-Warner can’t wait to get stuck in and be a part of Newcastle’s new era.

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.

“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.”