George Ford: England fly-half turned down R360 to stay at Sale Sharks

George Ford says he has rejected an offer from big-money rugby union start-up R360 to extend his 102-game England career.

The 32-year-old has signed a new three-year contract with Sale Sharks, making 44 appearances and scoring 341 points since joining in 2022.

England have previously confirmed that any player joining the R360 global circuit, like any other stars based abroad, will not be eligible for Test selection.

“They contacted my agent to have discussions, but the decision on this was purely based on the fact that I had an incredible desire to play for England,” Ford said.

“I loved my time at Sale Sharks too and it never got any further in terms of negotiations with the proposed new league.

“I love playing for England and I’m excited about it. I want to have the opportunity to represent my country even now. I feel I still have a lot to offer in the white shirt.”

R360’s goal of creating eight all-star men’s teams for a series of events in major cities was hit by a coordinated ban from leading unions last week.

England, New Zealand, Ireland, France are joined by Scotland, Australia, South Africa and Italy in saying they will not select any R360 recruits for international matches.

Northampton fly-half Fin Smith, a reported R360 target, made a similar call to Ford last week, extending his spell at Franklin’s Gardens, rather than taking part in the proposed new competition.