A Championship club have continued their strong run of recruitment with the arrival of a Super League forward and an overseas full-back for 2026.
Newcastle Thunder finished at the foot of League One in 2025, failing to win a game, but the amalgamation of the Championship and League One means they’re in the second tier for 2026 and they’ve built a strong squad for it.
Having entered a three-way partnership with York Knights and Penrith Panthers, Thunder have seen a number of York players sign for them for the upcoming season.
Bailey Antrobus, Sam Cook, Jude Ferreira, Jow Law and Brad Ward have all signed for the Championship side from York, whilst a number of other impressive recruits have arrived including Castleford Tigers’ winger Andy Djeukessi and overseas half Cody Hunter.
They’ve now added another York player with Harvey Reynolds, a forward who joined York from the Hull KR academy in 2024, signing for Thunder for 2026.
They’ve also recruited an overseas full-back to help form their spine with Frenchman Maxime Rostang signing from Albi Tigers, who play in the top flight in France.
Newcastle Thunder continue strong recruitment for 2026 Championship campaign
The 20-year-old Reynolds is another player who arrives with experience of a winning set-up whilst also being familiar with Newcastle, having spent time on loan in the North East previously.
As for Rostand, Albi actually won the 2024/25 season with the full-back being a key member of that squad as he made 21 appearances and helped the Tigers to the title.
He now arrives in the North East with Newcastle looking to spring a few upsets in 2026 courtesy of their strong recruitment but also their easier schedule.
The 21-team Championship will see sides play opponents closer to them based on last year’s rankings and with Newcastle finishing bottom of League One, they’re ranked 21st and thereby have the easiest schedule on paper.
Newcastle even stated their goals and expectations when confirming Rostang’s arrival as they said: “His arrival in the North East gives Thunder an experienced presence at the back with a proven track record of success.
“Rostang’s European rugby league experience adds further quality to Newcastle’s squad as the club aims to compete strongly throughout the 2026 Betfred Championship season.”
Check out the latest episode of The Serious About Rugby League Show on our YouTube channel here.
Newcastle Thunder have today confirmed the signing of French full-back Maxime Rostang as part of their preparations for the 2026 Betfred Championship campaign.
READ IN FULL > https://t.co/ZVv72OeSZ3 pic.twitter.com/PF1dRHOVFp
— Newcastle Thunder (@ThunderRugby) January 7, 2026
