NZ Rugby denies deal to keep Fineanganofo from Newcastle
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 1, 2026, 12:21 PM
Last updated Jun 1, 2026
New Zealand Rugby has rejected claims it is trying to prevent wing Fehi Fineanganofo from joining Newcastle Red Bulls for the upcoming season. Fineanganofo, who has recently matched the single-season Super Rugby record with 16 tries, had been reported to have received a solution that might allow him to stay in New Zealand. However, NZ Rugby states that it will not intervene to buy out his contract, emphasizing player choice. This decision comes amidst speculation regarding Fineanganofo's eligibility for the All Blacks if he moves overseas. His agent has indicated that any potential negotiations would need to involve Newcastle if NZ Rugby wants to make Fineanganofo available for national selection.
- •Fineanganofo is confirmed as a Newcastle signing for next season.
- •NZ Rugby cites player choice over contract negotiations.
- •Fineanganofo's form has increased his visibility for the All Blacks.
- •His agent suggests NZ Rugby should negotiate directly with Newcastle.
- •World Rugby rules restrict contract buyouts by national unions.
- 12:21 PMYahoo Sports — NZ Rugby denies buying out Fineanganofo contract
- 12:21 PMBBC Sport — NZ Rugby denies buying out Fineanganofo's Newcastle contract
"New Zealand Rugby denies any involvement in a reported U-turn by record-equalling wing Fehi Fineanganofo over a move to England to join Newcastle for next season.
"New Zealand Rugby denies any involvement in a reported U-turn by record-equalling wing Fehi Fineanganofo over a move to England to join Newcastle for next season.
Sources
External links- Yahoo SportsJun 1, 2026, 12:21 PMNZ Rugby denies buying out Fineanganofo contract
New Zealand Rugby denies any involvement in a reported U-turn by record-equalling wing Fehi Fineanganofo over a move to England to join Newcastle for next season.
- BBC SportJun 1, 2026, 12:21 PMNZ Rugby denies buying out Fineanganofo's Newcastle contract
New Zealand Rugby denies any involvement in a reported U-turn by record-equalling wing Fehi Fineanganofo over a move to England to join Newcastle for next season.
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