England head coach Steve Borthwick will have his contract extended past the 2028 Six Nations, the Rugby Football Union announced on Tuesday. The move mirrors the RFU's approach with Red Roses boss John Mitchell before the 2025 World Cup, aimed at providing clarity ahead of the global showpiece. RFU performance director Conor O'Shea stated the extension into the middle of 2028 will allow time to decide who leads the team in the longer term, ensuring coaches are not looking for jobs during a World Cup.

Following a review into England's "horrendous" Six Nations earlier this year, Borthwick has been backed to lead the side. O'Shea affirmed he cannot see a scenario where Borthwick is not in charge in Australia, stating the team is "unequivocally one of probably five teams who can win the World Cup." England recently finished the July leg of the Nations Championship with two wins from three, including victories over Fiji and Argentina.

However, the RFU has stopped short of a long-term commitment like Ireland, who have signed head coach Andy Farrell up to 2031. Selection restrictions remain, with Borthwick only able to pick players based in the English Premiership. O'Shea defended the policy, arguing it works for the broader English game despite calls from figures like Courtney Lawes to relax rules.

Meanwhile, O'Shea highlighted England women's dominance, noting the Red Roses are unbeaten in four years and have won every Six Nations since 2018.