Rugby Football Union extends Steve Borthwick contract until 2028

2 sources1 min read • Latest: Sep 9, 2026, 1:14 PM

Last updated Sep 9, 2026

Rugby Football Union extends Steve Borthwick contract until 2028
Summary

The Rugby Football Union has extended England head coach Steve Borthwick's contract through the 2028 Six Nations. This decision follows a difficult 2026 Six Nations campaign where England recorded only one victory, the team's lowest return in 25 years. Conor O'Shea, responsible for overseeing England's international success, publicly described the performance as "horrendous" while confirming the deal. The extension adds six months to Borthwick's previous agreement, which originally ended after the 2027 Rugby World Cup. According to O'Shea, the move is intended to provide coaching stability heading into the tournament rather than serving as a fresh vote of confidence. The organization remains under pressure to evaluate Borthwick's long-term position, with a deep run in the 2027 World Cup considered necessary for his continued employment.

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Status Watch
  • Steve Borthwick remains under contract through the 2028 Six Nations.
  • England recorded a single win during the 2026 Six Nations tournament.
  • The RFU aims to avoid coaching instability leading into the 2027 Rugby World Cup.
  • Borthwick has maintained a winning percentage under 60% since his December 2022 appointment.
  • Anything less than a semi-final appearance in the 2027 World Cup jeopardizes Borthwick's future.
Latest Updates
  • 1:14 PMYahoo SportsBorthwick's holding pattern extended - with minimal confidence vote
  • 1:14 PMBBC SportBorthwick's holding pattern extended - with minimal confidence vote
What they're saying
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England head coach Steve Borthwick's extra six months buys time but doesn't indicate reserves of confidence from his Rugby Football Union employers.

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England head coach Steve Borthwick's extra six months buys time but doesn't indicate reserves of confidence from his Rugby Football Union employers.

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