Steve Borthwick, the current head coach of England's rugby union team, is in line for a contract extension that will see him remain in the role past the 2028 Six Nations. The Rugby Football Union (RFU) aims to provide certainty regarding his future, particularly in the lead-up to and during the 2027 Rugby World Cup.
Following a review of England's performance in the Six Nations earlier this year, Borthwick has received backing to continue his tenure. RFU director of rugby development, Alex O'Shea, expressed confidence in Borthwick, stating he cannot envision a scenario where Borthwick is not coaching England in Australia for the World Cup. O'Shea highlighted Borthwick's deep commitment to the team, saying he "bleeds England" and desires success above all else.
Despite this backing, the RFU has not yet committed to a long-term contract for Borthwick, distinguishing their approach from that of Ireland, whose head coach Andy Farrell has a contract extending to 2031.
"This England team is unequivocally one of probably five teams who can win the World Cup next year. I believe this team can win a World Cup," O'Shea commented. He added that the talent within the squad is "100%" present and that "if over this next 12 months this England team shows the best version of itself, I know it can beat anyone in the world."
England's recent performance in the Nations Championship offered a mixed outlook. After a significant defeat against South Africa in Johannesburg, the team secured two wins from three matches, defeating Fiji in Liverpool and narrowly beating Argentina. These results have fueled optimism about the team's potential under Borthwick's leadership heading into the next World Cup cycle.