George Ford rejects R360 to focus on World Cup
Sale have locked down the England fly-half until 2029
©Sale Sharks
England fly-half George Ford has rejected a lucrative offer from the breakaway R360 competition to prioritise his international ambitions with England.
The 32-year-old, who recently won his 100th cap, confirmed he was approached by R360 with a deal reportedly worth around £1million per season.
However, Ford has committed his future to Sale Sharks, signing a new three-year contract that keeps him eligible for national selection through to the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia.
Ford, who played a central role at the 2023 World Cup and remains a key figure in Steve Borthwick’s squad, said the decision was guided by his desire to remain part of England’s long-term plans.
His choice comes as unions around the world have warned that players joining R360 will be barred from Test rugby.
“As players, we understand what’s going on with trying to set up this new league and they did contact my agent to have discussions,” said Ford.
“My decision-making was purely based on the fact that I love playing for England and I’ve got an unbelievable desire to keep playing for England. It’s the same with the Sale Sharks. I’ve loved my time here.
“It never really got any further than that with the conversations with the proposed new league. There were a couple of opportunities overseas but that would then mean that you’re calling time on your international career.
“I’ve had three different experiences in the three World Cups I’ve been to. We didn’t make it out of the pool in 2015, lost the final in 2019 and lost the semi-final and then won the third place play-off in 2023.
“They all give valuable lessons but the real reason you do it is to win trophies. That feeling of satisfaction that you’ve actually gone and worked hard and smart to achieve something at the end of it – it’s a massive motivation.
"There’s no better motivation than winning for England. It’s not just about representing England, you want to be part of a winning team.”
By staying in the Premiership, Ford secures his international pathway while continuing to lead at Sale, where he has been a pivotal figure since joining in 2022.
