Dan McFarland named Newcastle Red Bulls head coach

Newcastle Red Bulls have confirmed that Dan McFarland will become head coach this summer, leading a new-look coaching team that also includes the return of Calum MacRae as defence coach.

The appointments are part of the club’s wider reset ahead of the 2026/27 season as Newcastle prepare for a major rebuild on and off the field.

Dan McFarland To Lead Newcastle Red Bulls

McFarland arrives from Japanese side Kobelco Steelers and brings extensive experience from across the professional game.

The English coach previously worked with Connacht, Ireland Under-20s, Emerging Ireland and Ireland A before taking on senior roles with Glasgow Warriors, Scotland and Ulster.

He spent six years as Ulster head coach from 2018 to 2024, guiding the province to repeated appearances in the knockout stages of both the Champions Cup and the United Rugby Championship. His appointment gives Newcastle an experienced figure to drive the club’s next phase.

Calum MacRae Returns To Kingston Park

MacRae will return to Kingston Park as defence coach once his current duties with Benetton come to an end. He previously worked at Newcastle between 2011 and 2014 and now comes back with added experience from Edinburgh, Benetton and Scotland Sevens.

His return strengthens a coaching group that will also retain Stephen Jones as attack coach, Micky Ward as scrum coach and Lee Dickson as skills and transition coach. Mark Laycock will take on the role of coaching co-ordinator and transition coach.

“I’m very honoured to be joining Newcastle Red Bulls," said McFarland.

“The club and wider region has a fantastic rugby tradition which I am very respectful of, and keen to learn more about.

“I’m looking forward to working with all the players and support staff, and being heavily involved in one of the most exciting projects in world rugby at the moment".