Famous English club change name to ‘Red Bulls' after takeover by energy drinks giant – and fans are happy about it
RUGBY giants Newcastle Falcons have been renamed following a takeover by Red Bull.
The Premiership side will be known as Newcastle Red Bulls going forward.
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Newcastle Falcons have been named Newcastle Red Bulls following a takeover
Credit: Getty
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The change will take place from the 2025-26 season
Credit: PA
They will continue playing at Kingston Park and Steve Diamond will keep his role as Director of Rugby for the foreseeable future.
A statement from the club read: "Newcastle Rugby Ltd are pleased to announce that Red Bull has taken full ownership of the club.
"The newly-named Newcastle Red Bulls will proudly remain at Kingston Park and will build for sporting success with a commitment to developing local rugby talent through a strengthened academy program, delivering a world class fan experience and embracing the innovative approach that Red Bull has brought to its sports initiatives across the world.
"Steve Diamond will remain in his role of Director of Rugby, ensuring continuity and expertise as he prepares the team for the new season and helps to set the foundations for a club that aims to compete for trophies in England and Europe in the coming years."
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Meanwhile, Oliver Mintzlaff, Red Bull CEO Corporate Projects and Investments, said: "Together, we aim to elevate rugby to new heights and deliver unforgettable moments for our fans.
"We're delighted to have acquired Newcastle Red Bulls and look forward to empowering the club to reach its full competitive potential."
Rugby Football Union CEO Bill Sweeney added: "Red Bull's investment in Newcastle is a very positive development and demonstrates the confidence in and potential of the Gallagher Prem, which is experiencing growing attendances, increased youth audiences and rising TV viewership.
"We've been pleased to support the club, the league and Red Bull in the process which will be the first major new investment in a Prem club since 2016.
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"Having a Gallagher Prem club in the north of England is critical to rugby in the region both for preserving a rugby fanbase and its role in talent development and community outreach.
"We look forward to Newcastle Red Bulls going from strength-to-strength next season and congratulate all those involved in making today's announcement a reality."
Fans are also thrilled about the news, with one person taking to X to write: "Delighted for all the Newcastle fans and will strengthen the Prem and English rugby. Newcastle would have been relegated and probably gone had many got their way.
"Rugby correctly ring fenced and after the dreadful Covid impact, the sport can start to build and move toward financial sustainability.
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"I look forward to the dynamism and energy that the Red Bull marketing team will bring to our sport and hope this shows the way for other top brands to associate themselves with the game."
Another commented: "Absolutely fantastic news for the Premiership, European Rugby, club Rugby in England and most importantly, for Newcastle Falcons and Rugby in the North.
"I really hope Red Bull is allowed the opportunity to create Newcastle as one of Europe's best Rugby sides."
While a third said: "As a Wasps fan this is fantastic news for Newcastle fans who have stuck with them through tough times. Look forwards to seeing a lot of upsets this season."
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