Christian Wade will depart reigning Super League champions Wigan Warriors at the end of the rugby league season to return to rugby union with Newcastle Red Bulls from December.
The 34-year-old had crossed codes to join Wigan on a short-term deal from Gloucester following the 2024-25 Premiership season, but he was unable to make a lasting impact in the 13-a-side game.
Wade made two appearances for Wigan, scoring tries in both, but struggled with handling high kicks, most notably in a defeat to Hull FC in July—the last time he featured for the Warriors.
The second-highest try-scorer in Premiership history, just eight behind Chris Ashton, Wade’s move to Newcastle is one of the first major signings since the club’s Red Bull takeover.
Reflecting on his time in rugby league, Wade said:
“It’s been an absolute honour to be involved with a great club like Wigan Warriors. I’ve learnt a lot from the experience, and their fans are incredible—more like a football crowd with how passionate they are. I’ve been proud to represent them.”
Wigan head coach Matt Peet praised Wade’s professionalism and commitment:
“We’ve really enjoyed having him in the group and wish him and his family all the very best as he moves on to this exciting new chapter with Newcastle. It’s clear to see why he’s had such an outstanding career.”
Wade’s sporting journey has been remarkable. He scored 82 tries in seven seasons with Wasps before switching to American Football, joining the Buffalo Bills through the NFL’s International Player Pathway in 2019. He marked his debut with a 65-yard touchdown in pre-season but never played a regular-season game.
Returning to rugby union in 2022, Wade joined French club Racing before moving to Gloucester in 2024, where he scored 11 tries in 14 games. His brief stint with Wigan allowed him to test himself in rugby league while remaining part of a top-tier squad.
Newcastle boss Steve Diamond welcomed Wade to the club:
“He performed to a really high standard for Gloucester and challenged himself by joining the best rugby league team in the country, showing the enthusiasm he still has to broaden his knowledge and skill. He’s not only impressive on the field, but also an articulate and ambitious individual.”
Wade’s move signals a major coup for Newcastle Red Bulls and highlights the 34-year-old’s continued drive to compete at the highest level, no matter the code.
