Scotland international leaving Bath to return 'home' as Gregor Townsend reunion confirmed
The British & Irish Lions centre has agreed a deal to join Newcastle Red Bulls next season
Scotland international Chris Harris will leave Bath at the end of the current season and sign for Gallagher Premiership rivals Newcastle Red Bulls.
The 35-year old, who has 46 caps but has not featured for the national side since 2023, will return to the club where he made his professional debut back when they still operated as Newcastle Falcons. The club were taken over and renamed by the Red Bull GmbH group in 2025 with current Scotland head coach Gregor Townsend serving them as a specialist rugby advisor in a part-time capacity.
Harris, who is a British & Irish Lion having played the second Test of their 2021 South Africa tour, described Newcastle as ‘home’ and is looking forward to returning there next season. “Newcastle is home to me, and I owe so much to this club,” said Harris.
Scotland international returning to club where he began his senior playing career
“I can’t wait to bring my experience, on and off the field, and pull on the shirt once again. There’s a clear vision at Newcastle Red Bulls, and I am grateful for the opportunity to be part of this new chapter for the club.”
Harris has deep rooted links to the North of England having been born in Carlisle and attended Northumbria University. He left Falcons as a centurion in 2019 and then went on to also make over 100 appearances for Gloucester in English rugby’s top flight between 2019 and 2025.
He signed for Bath last year where he joined up with fellow Scotland internationals Finn Russell, Cam Redpath and Josh Bayliss. The Champions Cup semi-finalists described him as a player who “has delivered a stellar performance in Blue, Black and White, quickly becoming a valuable option in the midfield” and wished him well on his move back to Newcastle.
On the signing, Red Bulls sporting general manager Neil McIlroy added: “Chris is a top player who has proven himself at the elite end of the international and club game over many years. He will add real steel and experience to a key area in our midfield, and almost equally importantly will help develop the wealth of young talent we have within our ranks.”
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