Newcastle Red Bulls signing stood down with immediate effect

Elizalde had joined SRA outfit Tarucas on loan from Bristol Bears in a bid for more game time ahead of the July Internationals.

A statement on the club's Instagram said: "The Tarucas medical staff reports that player Benjamín Elizalde has suffered a rupture of his anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and lateral collateral ligament (LCL).

"The player is being monitored by the UAR (Argentine Rugby Union) and Tarucas medical staff throughout his treatment.

"The team expresses its support and wishes him a speedy recovery, accompanying him throughout his rehabilitation."

Elizalde becomes the second Argentina fullback unavailable through injury. First-choice No. 15 Juan Cruz Mallía was hurt while representing Argentina against England in November, after a late challenge from Tom Curry forced him from the field.

Although the injury is not expected to affect Elizalde’s move to the Red Bulls, it is likely to delay his debut for the club.

The fullback signed for Bristol in July 2024 and has continued his progression in the English Prem since arriving.

Internationally, Elizalde has represented Argentina in rugby sevens and was part of the Pumas squad that claimed gold at the 2022 South American Games.

He also played for Argentina U20 at both the 2024 World Rugby U20 Championship and the 2024 U20 Rugby Championship.

He made his senior debut for Argentina on 5 July 2025, starting at fullback against England.

Known for his reliability from the tee, Elizalde will strengthen Newcastle’s growing Argentine presence, with compatriot Franco Molina also due to join the Red Bulls next season.