Fehi Fineanganofo's switch to Newcastle Red Bulls has been delayed so that the All Blacks wing can pursue his dream of playing at the 2027 Rugby World Cup.
It was announced in January that Fineanganofo would be completing the switch from Hurricanes to Newcastle on a two-year deal ahead of the start of the 2026/27 campaign, but his impressive form for the Wellington-based outfit in Super Rugby has put him in the international Test picture.
After making his New Zealand debut back in July, Fineanganofo is now hopeful that he can make a push to be included in the squad for their World Cup venture, which starts in October 2027.
However, under All Blacks selection rules, overseas-based can not represent the country, and so Fineanganofo's switch to Tyneside in 2026 would have ruled him out of contention for the World Cup.
After months of discussions, Newcastle Red Bulls have agreed new terms that will see the player join at a later date.
But when will Fineanganofo represent his new club? Read on to find out.
When can Fehi Fineanganofo play for Newcastle Red Bulls?
The new terms of the contract means that Fineanganofo is contracted to represent Newcastle Red Bulls across the 2027/2028 and 2028/29 campaigns.
The 2027 World Cup will run from 1st October to the 13th November, and so -- if Fineanganofo is involved for the All Blacks -- he's likely to miss the first few weeks of the 2027/28 Gallagher PREM campaign. The schedule for the term has not been confirmed, and so it's yet to be seen as to how many games he will be absent for.
New Zealand have previously denied reports that they were trying to get the 24-year-old out of his Newcastle Red Bulls contract so that he can represent the nation at the World Cup, and a resolution has now been reached that suits all parties.
Speaking on Newcastle's willingness to renegotiate terms, Fineanganofo said: "I'm really grateful to Newcastle Red Bulls for the support and understanding they've shown me.
"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."
