14-Test former All Black loose forward Hoskins Sotutu has inked a new three-year deal with the Newcastle Red Bulls in the Gallagher Premiership.
Sotutu, who can represent Fiji through his father Waisake, as well as England through his mother Adelita, will become eligible for an allegiance switch after not playing for the All Blacks since 2022.
The blockbusting No.8 has scored 31 tries in his Blues career, and will join former Crusaders loose-forward Tom Christie at the Red Bulls.
Sotutu was named the Super Rugby Pacific player of the year in 2024, before being overlooked by Robertson and his coaching staff in the initial All Blacks squad for the France series in July.
The latest Newcastle Red Bulls signing said he’s excited to be a part of the new project, while also being challenged in a new league.
“I am excited to be committing to Newcastle Red Bulls’ project moving forward, and coming to compete in the Gallagher PREM week in, week out,” Sotutu said in a statement.
“The club made it clear to me how ambitious they are, and I am looking forward to getting started.
“I have enjoyed my time at the Blues and am looking to finish on a high before hitting the ground running in the North East of England.”
Sotutu explained that the Auckland-based Super Rugby Pacific franchise has been his home since the start of his professional career, and a place where he has many great memories.
“This club means a lot to me. The Blues has been my home for a long time and I’m proud of what we’ve achieved,” Sotutu said on the Blues statement.
“I’m grateful to the coaching staff, teammates and our fans for the support over the years and look forward to one more season with the boys.”
Newcastle Red Bulls Sporting general manager Neil McIlroy was full of praise for the 27-year-old, believing the signing shows the club really means business.
“This is a huge signing which brings major firepower into the club, and sends a message around the league.
“Hoskins is a player who was very much in demand from other teams, but he has seen what is being planned at Newcastle Red Bulls and wants to be part of it.
“He’s an X-factor player who will make a big impact on the field, and the way he plays will get people off their seats.
“The profile of the club and the Gallagher PREM as a whole will grow massively as a result of him joining us, and this is a signing which shows we really mean business.”