Jack Willis Set to Return to England Ahead of Rugby World Cup

Thursday, 09 October 2025 at 11:19

byRugby Rucker

Jack Willis strode to the stage at the iconic Paris venue of L'Olympia on Monday to accept the Top 14 Player of the Year award, cementing his status as one of the world’s premier flankers.

Jack Willis’ commitment to France now makes him ineligible for England selection, thanks to the RFU's strict "no overseas-based players" policy.

Despite being one of the standout performers in French rugby, the 27-year-old’s World Cup hopes are on ice—unless the RFU makes a U-turn ahead of Australia 2027.

But according to the Telegraph, a potential lifeline exists: a break clause in Jack Willis’ Toulouse contract could allow him to sign for a Premiership club for the 2027-28 season, potentially making him eligible for England’s campaign in Australia.

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Loyalty Over Everything

Previously linked with Bristol Bears, Leicester Tigers, Saracens, and most recently Newcastle Red Bulls following their takeover, Jack Willis’ current four-year deal highlights just how at home he feels in Toulouse. The club has helped Jack Willis’ family, including his two young children, settle comfortably in France.

Asked about representing Steve Borthwick’s side again, Jack Willis’ respect for Toulouse is palpable. He wants to repay the faith the French club has shown him.

"I would love to (play for England)," Jack Willis told the Mail Online. "It's something you dream of as a little kid. It's not something you ever let go of. It's not me who decides the rules. When I lost my job, there wasn't an opportunity (in England) that was feasible for me.

"I then got the opportunity with Toulouse and I feel like I wanted to give back that loyalty that was shown to me. And that's what I've tried to do with each match. I'm loving life out here. But as it stands, the rule is I've signed a long-term contract here, I can't play for England."

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From Wasps to Toulouse: The Jack Willis Journey

Jack Willis’ rise from Wasps to Toulouse has been remarkable. After Wasps entered administration in October 2022, Jack Willis was made redundant along with all other players and coaching staff. He joined Toulouse in November 2022 and quickly became a linchpin, captaining the side and leading them to multiple titles, including the 2024 Champions Cup and the 2025 Top 14 crown.

Jack Willis’ performances haven’t gone unnoticed. In April 2025, he was nominated for the Champions Cup Player of the Year and earned Man of the Match honors in both the Round of 16 and the quarterfinals. Despite his success in France, the RFU’s overseas player policy continues to block Jack Willis’ path back to England.

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10. David Pocock & Emma Palandri – £1.5 million

Former Australian rugby star David Pocock and his wife, Emma Palandri, have diversified their wealth through post-rugby careers. Pocock is now an Australian senator, while Palandri co-founded social enterprise projects focusing on sustainable development.

9. Nigel Owens & Barrie Jones-Davies – £2 million

Nigel Owens, Welsh former rugby referee, is a motivational speaker, commentator, and farmer. Together with his partner, Barrie Jones-Davies, they’ve cultivated a modest fortune built on Owens’ post-rugby ventures.

8. Owen Farrell & Georgie Farrell – £3 million

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7. Bryan Habana & Janine Viljoen – £8 million

South African rugby legend Bryan Habana and entrepreneur Janine Viljoen have grown their wealth through sports, media appearances, and business initiatives.

From business ventures and endorsements to philanthropy and royal connections, these power couples exemplify success in every arena.

6. Siya & Rachel Kolisi – £10 million

World Cup-winning captain Siya Kolisi and Rachel Kolisi, co-founder of the Kolisi Foundation, are currently navigating a divorce. Their combined wealth stems from rugby, endorsements, and philanthropic ventures that uplift underprivileged communities.

5. Dan & Honor Carter – £12 million

All Blacks fly-half Dan Carter, three-time World Rugby Player of the Year, and his wife, Honor Carter, former Black Ferns hockey player, have built a fortune through rugby and business ventures.

4. Richie & Gemma McCaw – £15 million

Two-time Rugby World Cup champion Richie McCaw and his wife Gemma McCaw, former Black Sticks hockey player, have amassed wealth through sports, endorsements, and philanthropic work.

3. Jonny Wilkinson & Shelley Jenkins – £20 million

England hero Jonny Wilkinson and his wife Shelley Jenkins have grown their fortune post-retirement through media appearances, business ventures, and strategic endorsements.

2. Sonny Bill & Alana Williams – £22 million

Versatile athlete Sonny Bill Williams and Alana Williams, former model and businesswoman, have diversified wealth from rugby, rugby league, boxing, and endorsements.

1. Mike & Zara Tindall – £25 million

Mike Tindall, former England captain, and Zara Tindall, Olympic equestrian and granddaughter of Queen Elizabeth II, top the list. Mike enjoys a successful media career, while Zara remains active in equestrian sports and business, making them rugby’s wealthiest power couple.