John Mitchell's England future cleared up by RFU

John Mitchell will remain England head coach until June next year regardless of how the Red Roses perform at the World Cup, according to the Rugby Football Union.

England are favourites to win the tournament they are hosting in August and September having clinched a seventh successive Women’s Six Nations title and amassed 55 wins in 56 Tests.

Their only blemish is a 34-31 loss in the 2022 World Cup final to New Zealand, who have beaten the Red Roses in five of the last six finals.

Experienced former All Blacks boss Mitchell was recruited to improve that record but RFU director of performance rugby Conor O’Shea insists he will stay in his post for the 2026 Six Nations even if he fails to deliver the title.

“Results are important but you don’t want people thinking about what their next job is by having a contract finishing at that time,” O’Shea said.

“There will be no thought for anything until we get through the World Cup and Six Nations. I think it is very unhealthy to be insecure going into the World Cup – and that’s the only focus we have.

“We didn’t want anyone speculating about anything because that’s the most unhealthy thing that can happen in any environment. That’s why there are no contract talks for players or coaches.”