Political leaders happy with Red Bull takeover

RED Bull's takeover of the Newcastle Falcons will mean fans in the North East can enjoy elite rugby for “many more years” to come.

- DANIEL HOLLAND

Political leaders have welcomed the confirmation this week that the Austria-based energy drink giant has now taken full ownership of the Falcons, who will be re-branded as the Newcastle Red Bulls.

Described as a “landmark moment” for English rugby union, it comes after several years of the Falcons languishing at the bottom of the Premiership table and struggling to compete financially.

Red Bull’s sporting success in Formula One, football and cycling is well-known and there are high hopes that the takeover will herald a return to the glory days at Kingston Park.