Steve Borthwick: Contract Extension Despite Poor Six Nations Performance
BBC Sport reports on the recent development regarding England’s Rugby Union head coach, Steve Borthwick. Despite a highly criticized and underwhelming 2026 Six Nations campaign, characterized by O’Shea as a "horrendous" display, Borthwick has seen his contract extended.
Conor O’Shea, in an interview with Rugby Union Weekly, revealed that Borthwick’s contract now runs until the end of the 2028 Six Nations, beyond the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia. This move aims to provide stability and certainty for Borthwick and the team, avoiding the uncertainty that could arise if he were to seek a new job before the World Cup.
O’Shea’s decision to extend Borthwick’s contract, while acknowledging the poor performances, is strategic. It mirrors a similar approach taken with the English women’s team, the Red Roses, where a contract extension was granted during their successful World Cup campaign in 2025.
The RFU’s current strategy is a holding pattern, aiming to navigate the World Cup without the added pressure of a contract deadline. Interestingly, O’Shea referenced the 2015 World Cup, where England’s early exit prompted much debate, but ultimately led to a longer-term commitment from the RFU.
"You don’t want the coaches looking for a job going into tournament. If they have no certainty, that is the worst case." – Conor O’Shea
This cautious approach allows for a thorough assessment of Borthwick’s progress following the World Cup, ensuring a more informed decision on his future.
