John Mitchell eyes Women's Lions role after World Cup triumph with Red Rose

England head coach John Mitchell hinted he could take charge of the first women’s British & Irish Lions team while still leading the Red Roses, though he emphasized his focus remains on England for now.

Since taking over in autumn 2023, Mitchell has steered England through an unbeaten run culminating in their 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup victory.

His contract runs through the 2026 Women’s Six Nations. He suggested that if he and the RFU believe he remains the right fit, he may stay in the role longer.

Mitchell did not close the door on a future Lions role, saying the idea of being involved in the inaugural women’s Lions tour is “definitely something I would consider.” He acknowledged the prestige of the Lions brand and his own history with it from his youth.

“The Lions is a huge honour,” Mitchell said. “It will be the first ever women’s Lions as well.

“I can still remember as a kid at high school when I met the 1977 Lions in assembly.

"They have always been a part of my life, getting up in the early hours of the morning to watch them, or they have come to my country when I was living in New Zealand and you understand how they play an important part in our rugby.

“If that ever did come along, that is definitely something I would consider. That is all part of the plan. But more importantly I want to make sure that I get the next cycle foundations in the right place.”