Canada’s Mason Flesch signs with Newcastle Red Bulls of England’s top rugby division

NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE — Canadian rugby international Mason Flesch has signed with the Newcastle Red Bulls of England’s Premiership Rugby through the end of the 2026-27 season.

The 26-year-old from Cobourg, Ont., becomes the first Canadian men’s international to join a club in England’s top rugby division since Evan Olmstead, who last played for Newcastle in 2019.

Flesch joins Newcastle after helping the Chicago Hounds complete an undefeated Major League Rugby season, scoring a try in their 35-17 championship victory over the California Legion.

“Mason has been a stand-out performer in Major League Rugby and for his country, and deserves this opportunity,” Newcastle head coach Dan McFarland said in a release issued by the club Wednesday.

“He is a great athlete who will add depth to a very competitive area of our squad, and I look forward to working with him in our environment.”

Flesch, a 26-Test veteran, scored three tries in two matches for Canada at the Pacific Nations Cup, including two against Fiji in the semifinals.

He said the move will allow him to train and compete full-time as Canada prepares for the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia.

“I’m looking forward to being involved with a quality full-time organization, and most importantly very eager to train and help push standards,” he said.

Canada will face Argentina, Fiji and Spain in Pool C at the tournament.


This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 21, 2026.

The Canadian Press