Rusi Tuima signs for Newcastle Redbulls for 2026/27 season

Exeter Chiefs lock Rusi Tuima has agreed a move to Newcastle Redbulls for the 2026/27 season.

The 25-year-old is one of the success stories of the Chiefs player pathway and has earned 74 appearances, scoring 19 tries in all competitions for the first team.

Tuima said: “I’ve been part of Exeter Chiefs since I was 14 when I started in the academy. I’m sad to be leaving the place I’ve called home for the past eight seasons, but I’m equally excited for a new adventure.

“From winning the Prem Cup to making the last 16 in Europe, I’m grateful for the opportunities I’ve had to run out for this club but most importantly, alongside my brothers.

“To the boys, thank you. Through the highs and lows, we did it together and I’m grateful for all of you. To the coaches past and present, thank you for the time and care you put into helping me develop over the years. And to the fans, thank you for your support through the ups and the downs, you guys don’t disappoint.

“Times not up just yet, I’m looking forward to ripping into the rest of this season and doing great things with this team one final time.”

Born in Suva, Fiji with rugby in his veins, Tuima first caught the eye with impressive performances for Ivybridge which earned him a spot in the Chiefs academy through Exeter College.

Spells being dual registered with Plymouth Albion and Cornish Pirates allowed the forward to gain valuable exposure to senior rugby before making his official Chiefs debut against Bath Rugby in a Prem Rugby Cup match in September 2019.

International selectors have often showed interest in Tuima, calling him into England U20 and England A squads. Most recently he featured against Australia A at the Twickenham Stoop in November 2024.

Tuima will continue with Chiefs for the current campaign before moving north in the summer.