All Blacks winger Fehi Fineanganofo's move to England has been put on hold for a season after he extended his Hurricanes and New Zealand Rugby contracts through to the end of 2027, following a breakout Super Rugby season.
The 24-year-old extended his contract with New Zealand Rugby and the Hurricanes through to the end of next year after "several months of positive and collaborative discussions" with the Newcastle Red Bulls.
He will then play in Newcastle from 2027 to 2029.
Fineangonofo had a breakout season with the Hurricanes, where he set a joint record for most tries in a season as the franchise won its first title since 2016.
All Blacks head coach Dave Rennie then selected Fineangonofo for the Nations Championship and tour of South Africa, making three appearances in the black jersey.
Fineanganofo said he was grateful to Newcastle and NZ Rugby for the opportunity to continue in New Zealand next year.
"I'm excited to be staying in New Zealand with the Hurricanes for next season. I'm proud of what we achieved last season, and I’m looking forward to helping defend the Super Rugby title while continuing to put my hand up for the All Blacks ahead of the Rugby World Cup."
Hurricanes head coach Clark Laidlaw said it was "great news" for the side that Fineanganofo would remain in New Zealand for another season.
"The opportunity for him to play for us in 2027 is something we’re really excited about. He has obviously had an amazing season in 2026 by winning Super Rugby Pacific, breaking the try-scoring record, and being selected for the All Blacks."
Laidlaw said Fineanganofo could be "super proud" of a "hugely successful year".
"We look forward to that continuing next season and seeing him in pre-season once we get back together."
Newcastle Red Bulls sporting general manager Neil McIlroy said the team was "fully supportive" of Fineanganofo's desire to play at the Rugby World Cup, saying it "marries with our own philosophy of aiming high and enabling our athletes to fulfil their ambitions".
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