Scotland Coach Gregor Townsend Joins Newcastle Red Bulls in Part-Time Advisory Role

Gregor Townsend, the Scotland head coach, has taken a part-time advisory role with Red Bull, dedicating 30 days annually to help shape the global rugby strategy of Newcastle Red Bulls, a club recently acquired by Red Bull. This role was agreed upon alongside Townsend's contract extension to lead Scotland through the 2027 Rugby World Cup, with full support from the Scottish Rugby Union, ensuring no conflicts with his national coaching duties. Newcastle Red Bulls have undergone a management restructure, parting ways with director of rugby Steve Diamond shortly after the start of the new Premiership season, with Neil McIlroy appointed as sporting general manager and Alan Dickens promoted to head coach. The club, which has finished bottom of the table in the last three seasons, aims to leverage Red Bull's sporting network to improve performance and competitiveness, with significant new signings and an emphasis on leadership and culture. Jonny Petrie will join as managing director to oversee the club's long-term off-field success, complementing the new rugby operations leadership. Red Bull's involvement reflects a broader strategy to transform Newcastle into a top Premiership contender, with Townsend's collaboration seen as beneficial to both the club and Scottish rugby.