Finn Mackay snubs rival Super Rugby offer to sign two-year Reds extension

Finn Mackay has turned down an offer from a rival Super Rugby Pacific club to remain at the Queensland Reds, signing a two-year contract extension that runs through to 2028. The 19-year-old fly-half made the decision to stay in his home city of Brisbane, where he has been part of the Reds academy system since the age of 15.

Mackay announced himself at senior level last October with an impressive performance against Saitama Panasonic Wild Knights, contributing try assists and two scores from the boot in a 59-19 Queensland win. That display earned him a full debut the following week against the same opposition, making him Reds representative number 1424 — all before his 18th birthday. Coach Les Kiss then selected him off the bench for the Super Rugby Pacific season opener against the NSW Waratahs in February, where he played 13 minutes at Allianz Stadium.

On the international stage, Mackay has been equally eye-catching for the Australia Under-20s. He started against New Zealand Under-20s on 27 May, finishing with nine points across the full 80 minutes, before crossing for a try against hosts South Africa Under-20s the following week. He has since been named in Australia’s squad for the World Rugby Junior World Championship in Georgia, running from 27 June to 18 July.

“I got a lot out of training with the Reds’ top squad this season — being able to learn from the inside knowledge and tips from the club’s international fly-halves and backs,” Mackay said. “I’ve taken advice and lessons into my game to make me better.”

The teenager cited comfort and trust as key factors in his decision to stay. “Brisbane is my home town. When you are comfortable and having fun, you are playing your best footy. I was given an opportunity against the Wild Knights and in Super Rugby Pacific quicker than I ever expected. I’ve felt the trust from Les Kiss and the other coaches at the Reds from the start.”

Mackay also pointed to the broader culture Kiss has built around the club’s younger players. “The club is in a good place. I see guys of my age group and the experiences we’ve had together already at U16s, U18s and Next Gen, and feel we are going to have an excellent group come through to play in the big boys’ league.”

Reds General Manager Sam Cordingley acknowledged the significance of retaining a player of Mackay’s trajectory. “Finn has been part of the Reds program since he was 15 and we’re incredibly proud of the progress he has made,” Cordingley said.