Borthwick given RFU backing for World Cup even if England flop in Nations Championship

England rugby head coach Steve Borthwick has received unequivocal backing from RFU chief Bill Sweeney to lead England into the 2026 Rugby World Cup, regardless of results in the upcoming Nations Championship. Borthwick's contract was extended in September through the 2028 Six Nations despite England suffering their worst-ever Six Nations performance this year. The coach remains under pressure after five defeats in England's last seven matches, though the team received a boost with fly-half Fin Smith returning to training.