Former All Blacks flanker Hoskins Sotutu has officially signed a contract with English Premiership club Newcastle Red Bulls, marking an exciting new chapter in his rugby career. His move to England, set to take effect at the beginning of the 2026 season, comes after he found himself falling down the backrow depth chart with the All Blacks. The multi-year deal signifies the club’s strong confidence in his skills and extensive experience at the top level of rugby.
Embracing his Fijian heritage, Sotutu is the son of former Fijian international rugby player Waisake Sotutu, whose passion for the sport influenced Hoskins’ journey in rugby. His background resonates with many Fijian fans, who admire his physicality, work rate, and intelligence on the field. While his move abroad has evoked mixed feelings among Fiji’s rugby community—part pride in his achievements and part regret over the potential impact he could have had playing for the Flying Fijians—there is no doubt that his signing is a significant milestone.
In Super Rugby, Hoskins Sotutu made an impressive mark while playing for the Blues, accumulating 79 caps and showcasing his power and versatility in the back row. His performance in 2024 earned him the distinguished titles of Super Rugby Pacific Player of the Year and MVP, along with the Blues’ Players’ Player of the Year award—a testament to his stellar campaign and impact on the game.
Despite his departure, Sotutu remains a beloved figure among Fijian rugby supporters, representing the remarkable talent that Fiji continues to produce in the world of rugby. His journey highlights not only the global reach of Fijian athletes but also the deep-rooted influence of Fijian culture on the sport. While fans may still harbor hopes of seeing him wear the Flying Fijians jersey in the future, they take pride in his accomplishments and wholeheartedly support this new venture with Newcastle Red Bulls. The rugby community looks forward to witnessing his continued success on the international stage.