Christian Wade backs Newcastle Red Bulls to become one of rugby's best after Red Bull Salzburg immersion

Christian Wade has declared Newcastle Red Bulls capable of reaching the summit of world rugby after the squad spent pre-season at Red Bull’s Athlete Performance Centre in Salzburg, Austria — a facility the 35-year-old wing described as something “out of James Bond”.

Wade, who joined the Premiership club following a stint in the NFL, said the trip gave the squad a deeper understanding of how the Red Bull organisation operates across its sporting portfolio, from Formula 1 to football, and why that infrastructure gives Newcastle a genuine platform to compete.

“We had lots of fun over there. Lots of training and extra curriculum activities with Red Bull. We got to see their headquarters, which is something out of James Bond,” Wade said. “Red Bull is a massive brand — number one for marketing in the world, leaders in upskilling their employees and whatever teams they bring into the fold.”

The confidence is notable given Newcastle’s record in the Premiership under Red Bull ownership: just four wins across three seasons. Wade acknowledged the squad is still finding its feet relative to more established clubs, but insisted the foundations are now in place.

“I can’t really compare it to other clubs yet because they’re probably more established, but we’ve definitely got the makings of being one of the great teams, if not one of the best teams in the world,” he said.

Wade pointed to a wholesale rebuild — new coaches, new backroom staff and a new board — as evidence that the pieces are coming together. He also referenced the broader Red Bull network as a resource the club can draw on, noting that figures such as Jürgen Klopp, who holds a global soccer role within the organisation, are available for guidance.

“We have the support of Red Bull, attracting players year on year and attracting members of staff, top people in the performance world,” Wade added. “You can see all the pieces are coming together. It always starts with the belief that you can be number one.”

For Wade, the mental shift that came from Salzburg is as significant as any tactical preparation. “It all starts with a mind. If you believe you can do something, if you believe you have the resources to support, then it’s all about what you do now in terms of your process to get there,” he said.

Newcastle Red Bulls begin their Premiership campaign with expectations, at least internally, running considerably higher than their recent league standing might suggest.