Red Bull Confirm Takeover of Newcastle Falcons

Red Bull has reached a deal to acquire Newcastle Falcons, committing to keep the club in its long-time home at Kingston Park and maintaining the Gallagher Premiership’s 10-team structure for the 2025–26 season.

The Falcons have been on the market for over a year, with outgoing owner Semore Kurdi unwilling to continue covering significant annual losses. The club's financial challenges had raised fears of a potential collapse, echoing the recent demises of Wasps, Worcester Warriors, and London Irish.

To safeguard the league’s commercial stability, other Premiership clubs had provisionally agreed to a £4 million loan to keep Newcastle afloat. However, Red Bull's full acquisition now eliminates the need for that support. The energy drinks giant is expected to take on approximately £39 million in debt, including £14.5 million in government-backed Covid-era loans.

While relocation to the Darlington Arena was explored during talks, Red Bull has committed to retaining the club’s roots in Newcastle, a move likely to be welcomed by loyal fans after a winless season.

Red Bull plans to revitalise the Falcons by leveraging its brand power and marketing expertise, particularly targeting younger audiences and Newcastle’s student demographic through tailored outreach campaigns.

This marks Red Bull's first entry into professional rugby and signals a major new commercial force in the sport’s evolving club landscape.