Newcastle Falcons are set to undergo a name change to Newcastle Red Bulls starting from the upcoming season, as Red Bull edges closer to acquiring the Premiership Rugby club. The finalization of this rebranding is pending approval from the Rugby Football Union (RFU) and the completion of legal procedures. The agreement between Red Bull and Semore Kurdi, the former chairman, has been communicated to the Newcastle players and staff.
Red Bull’s proposed takeover includes assuming Newcastle’s existing debt, including a Covid-related loan amounting to nearly £14.5 million. As reported by the Telegraph, Red Bull aims to preserve the club’s youth academy products and enhance the club’s appeal to players.
After finishing at the bottom of the Premiership table last season with only two wins from 18 matches, Newcastle has struggled to retain key players who have moved on to other clubs. Notable departures include Jamie Blamire to Leicester Tigers, Callum Chick to Northampton Saints, Adam Radwan to Welford Road, and Guy Pepper to Bath.
The club’s current chairman, Semore Kurdi, who has invested approximately £25 million since 2011, is no longer able to fund Newcastle’s operations independently. Previous discussions for financial assistance from other Premiership clubs and CVC Capital Partners did not materialize. Attempts to attract investment from the Saudi Public Investment Fund, which owns the city’s football club, were also unsuccessful.
While the Saudi fund showed no interest in acquiring the rugby team, Red Bull has stepped in to add Newcastle to its portfolio of sports entities. Known for their Formula 1 team, Red Bull also owns football clubs like FC Red Bull Salzburg and RB Leipzig, with a minority stake in Leeds United. Red Bull has had a partnership with England Rugby since 2020.
Red Bull has established sponsorship relationships with prominent rugby players like Jack Nowell, Mack Hansen, and Siya Kolisi. It is customary for teams under Red Bull’s ownership to adopt the brand’s name, as seen with the MLS franchise New York Red Bulls. Newcastle’s sole English championship victory dates back to 1998.