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Steve Borthwick gets contract extension through 2028 Six Nations

9/9/2026

Summary

Borthwick Secures Extension

England head coach Steve Borthwick received a contract extension through the 2028 Six Nations.
The RFU said the extension avoids coaching uncertainty before the 2027 World Cup.
RFU chief executive Bill Sweeney backed Borthwick to lead England into next year’s World Cup.
England finished fifth in the 2026 Six Nations, their worst ever.
Autumn tests versus Australia, Japan, New Zealand and a rankings match will add pressure on Borthwick.

Summary

Lawes Returns

Courtney Lawes and Joe Marchant rejoined England after spells in France, becoming eligible under Premiership rule.
Defence coach Richard Wigglesworth warned they must outperform Premiership rivals to earn autumn squad spots.
Maro Itoje returned after an off-season break, citing mental recovery as crucial.
Front-row depth improved with Joe Heyes, Ellis Genge and Vilikesa Sela earning training roles.
Inside-centre competition intensified as Marchant challenged Henry Slade and Benhard Janse van Rensburg.

History

Historical Context

After England’s 2003 World Cup triumph—a 20-17 victory over Australia—Clive Woodward’s tenure set a precedent for the RFU’s long-term coaching contracts. Echoing that approach, the union has now tied head coach Steve Borthwick to 2028, recalling veterans Courtney Lawes and Maro Itoje to deepen squad depth ahead of the 2027 World Cup and improve Six Nations results.

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Borthwick Secures Extension

England head coach Steve Borthwick received a contract extension through the 2028 Six Nations.
The RFU said the extension avoids coaching uncertainty before the 2027 World Cup.
RFU chief executive Bill Sweeney backed Borthwick to lead England into next year’s World Cup.
England finished fifth in the 2026 Six Nations, their worst ever.
Autumn tests versus Australia, Japan, New Zealand and a rankings match will add pressure on Borthwick.

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