England womens coach Mitchell open to 2027 Lions role

John Mitchell, the New Zealand-born head coach of England women's rugby, has expressed openness to coaching the first women's British & Irish Lions tour to New Zealand in 2027, a historic event as it marks the inaugural women's Lions tour. Mitchell led England to a Women's Rugby World Cup victory in 2023, maintaining an unbeaten record since taking charge, and his contract with the Rugby Football Union (RFU) runs through mid-2026. While he has yet to decide whether to continue as England's head coach beyond the 2026 Six Nations, he is focused on building a strong foundation for the next World Cup cycle and acknowledges the potential transitions in the squad due to players' ages. The Lions tour will feature three Test matches against New Zealand's Black Ferns, with additional fixtures still to be confirmed. Mitchell reflects on the honor of the Lions role, noting a lifelong connection with the team and the unique opportunity to coach against his country of birth. Regardless of his future with England, Mitchell remains committed to investing in player development and preparing the team for continued success.