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RFU backs Borthwick to lead England into World Cup amid struggles

The Guardian Sport • 1 min read • Latest: Nov 4, 2026, 5:00 PM

Last updated Nov 4, 2026

RFU backs Borthwick to lead England into World Cup amid struggles

Summary

Steve Borthwick has received the full backing of the Rugby Football Union to coach England during the upcoming World Cup, regardless of the team's performance this autumn. Borthwick's contract was extended in September to include the period after the 2028 Six Nations, aimed at stabilizing the team ahead of next year's tournament. Despite this support, the head coach is under pressure following five losses in seven matches. England will look to improve with the return of fly-half Fin Smith to training.

Source Links

The Guardian Sport

By the Numbers

•Steve Borthwick receives RFU's full support for World Cup.
•England's performance this autumn will not affect Borthwick's position.
•Borthwick's contract extended through the 2028 Six Nations.
•England has lost five of its last seven matches.
•Fly-half Fin Smith has returned to training.

Latest Updates

5:00 PMThe Guardian Sport — Borthwick given RFU backing for World Cup even if England flop in Nations Championship

What they're saying

"
RFU chief Bill Sweeney offers full support to Borthwick England boosted by fly-half Fin Smith returning to training Steve Borthwick has been given the Rugby Football Union’s unequivocal backing to lead England into next year’s World Cup even if the side flop this autumn. In September Borthwick’s contract wasextended to after the 2028 Six Nations, despite England’s worst ever Six Nations performance earlier this year, to avoid speculation in the buildup to next year’s tournament. But the head coach remains under pressure on the back of five defeats in the last seven matches. Continue reading...
— The Guardian Sportby Gerard Meagher

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