England star confirms he’ll retire after the 2027 Rugby World Cup

The veteran hooker has agreed a final contract with Saracens which will take him through the 2026/27 season, after which he plans to retire from the game.

It means the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia could provide the perfect stage for George to make his final appearance in an England shirt.

George, who will be 37 during the tournament, has already enjoyed one of the most decorated careers of any English forward of the professional era.

The Saracens stalwart made his England debut against France in 2015 and has since gone on to become the country's most-capped hooker.

He has represented England at three Rugby World Cups, helping them reach the final in Japan in 2019 before playing a major role in their run to the semi-finals four years later.

George was also appointed England captain by Steve Borthwick ahead of the 2024 Six Nations.

The hooker has additionally been selected for three British & Irish Lions tours, travelling to New Zealand in 2017, South Africa in 2021 and Australia in 2025.

George confirmed earlier this year that his latest Saracens contract would be his last, bringing an end to a remarkable association with the north London club.

The hooker came through the Saracens academy and has spent his entire senior club career with the Premiership giants, winning multiple Premiership and European titles along the way.

Attention will now turn to whether he can remain part of Borthwick’s England plans all the way through to Australia.

Should he make the final squad, the 2027 World Cup would provide a fitting final chapter for one of England's most experienced internationals.

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