John Mitchell to Lead Red Roses Through Next World Cup Cycle

Rugby World Cup-winning head coach John Mitchell has committed his future to the Red Roses after signing a long-term contract extension.

The World Rugby Coach of the Year, who guided England to World Cup glory in 2025, will remain in post through the next World Cup cycle, providing continuity and long-term leadership for the programme.

Mitchell’s tenure has delivered unprecedented success. A run of 25 consecutive victories has underpinned a world-record winning streak, yielding two Guinness Women’s Six Nations Grand Slams, two WXV 1 titles and England’s first World Cup triumph in 11 years.

Under his stewardship, the Red Roses have also consolidated their position as the world’s number one ranked side. Their current rating of 98.09 points is the highest ever achieved by any women’s or men’s team in the history of the game.

“I am pleased to extend my time with the Red Roses,” Mitchell said. “This extension provides continuity across a World Cup cycle and allows the programme to operate with a clear, long-term vision.

“The past three years have been both challenging and rewarding. We have delivered success at the highest level while enabling individuals within the Red Roses to remain authentic. That journey has helped establish strong standards, clarity of purpose, deeper connections and a culture that consistently wins.

“This group has the opportunity to continue leading the game globally. By driving higher standards and continually seeking new performance gains, we can build on what is already in place and push the boundaries of what is possible.

“Our immediate focus, however, is 2026. There is a strong sense of unfinished business within the group, and that will shape our preparation, our training approach and our determination to continue raising our baseline as we build a lasting dynasty.”

RFU Executive Director of Performance Rugby, Conor O’Shea, welcomed the news.

“We are all delighted that Mitch has committed to the next cycle, and if anything, he is more driven than ever to help the Red Roses become even better versions of themselves,” O’Shea said.

“He has created a culture that delivers on the biggest stage, and just as importantly, he is deeply committed to growing the team’s legacy and building something that will endure well beyond his time as head coach.”

Mitchell will continue to be supported by forwards coach Louis Deacon and defence coach Sarah Hunter, while attack coach Lou Meadows will depart her role.

Meadows joined the Red Roses in the summer of 2023 and oversaw an attack that produced 215 tries in 28 matches, contributing to two Six Nations titles, two WXV tournaments and a World Cup victory.

Everyone at the RFU would like to thank Lou for her outstanding contribution to the Red Roses, as well as her previous work within the U20s programme, and wish her every success in the future.

Mitchell will assume responsibility as head of attack for the 2026 Guinness Women’s Six Nations, with England women’s all-time leading points scorer Emily Scarratt taking on lead attack and backs coach duties for the tournament. The 35-year-old retired from playing following World Cup success and will continue in her role as an assistant coach at PWR club Loughborough Lightning.