Newcastle Red Bulls sign 6 foot 5 England forward from Prem rivals

Standing at 6 foot 5, Tuima brings size, athleticism and proven Premiership pedigree to the Red Bulls’ pack. He leaves Exeter having scored 20 tries in 74 appearances for the Chiefs, having progressed through their academy after moving to the UK from Fiji at the age of four.

The Fijian-born forward has built a reputation as one of the most physically imposing young forwards in English rugby, combining his ball-carrying threat with an uncompromising defensive edge. Alongside his club achievements, Tuima has represented England at Under-18s, Under-20s and ‘A’ level, underlining his status as a product of the national pathway.

Newcastle Red Bulls sporting general manager Neil McIlroy said: “Rusi has a well-deserved reputation around the Gallagher PREM as somebody who loves the physical aspects of the game. He has got a big frame which he uses to good effect, and I’m sure our supporters will enjoy his ball-carrying and big hits.

“He has come through the national pathway and earned his England A cap last season, and it’s great that he sees Newcastle as a stage where he can really push on and achieve his personal ambitions.”

Tuima is relishing the next chapter of his career in the North East, as well as the opportunity to be part of a growing project at Kingston Park.

He said: “I’m hugely excited to rip into what the Newcastle Red Bulls have already started building. It’s such an exciting project. Newcastle is always a tough place to come and play, so I’m looking forward to adding to that.

“Whilst I’m looking forward to calling Newcastle home and getting stuck in at Kingston Park, I’m also incredibly grateful to the Exeter Chiefs players, coaches and supporters for providing the amazing opportunities to represent my boyhood club – memories that I and my family will cherish forever.”

Tuima made his Exeter Chiefs debut in the Premiership Rugby Cup in 2019 before going on to make his Premiership debut in 2021. He enjoyed a standout 2023–24 campaign, earning a place in the Premiership Rugby Team of the Season and scoring for England A against Portugal before being invited into a senior England training squad.

His arrival continues a strong recruitment drive by Newcastle Red Bulls ahead of next season, following several high-profile additions, including fellow Exeter Chiefs player Josh Hodge and Argentina lock Franco Molina.