What Owen Farrell’s France move means for player, England and eligibility rules

The 32-year-old fly-half will join Racing 92 on a two-year deal from next season.

Published Jan 23

Owen Farrell’s departure for Racing 92 next season has been confirmed with the Saracens captain agreeing a two-year deal with the Parisians.

The ramifications for England and the Gallagher Premiership are significant and place the Rugby Football Union’s eligibility rules under the spotlight.

Here the PA news agency looks at the key questions surrounding the England and Lions fly-half’s move to France.

Why has Farrell joined Racing 92?

The Premiership is losing one of its highest profile players (Joe Giddens/PA)

What does it mean for England?

Eligibility rules dictate that Farrell will be unavailable for selection when he leaves the Premiership, denying England the services of their talisman, leading Test points scorer and third most capped player. Farrell could realistically have expected to remain in contention for the number 10 jersey for the next two years – the duration of his Racing contract – so head coach Steve Borthwick is losing an influential player with much still to offer, raising the possibility that the World Cup bronze final victory over Argentina in October was his final international.

Could the eligibility rules change?

Owen Farrell led England to a third-place finish at the recent World Cup (David Davies/PA)

Should England fans be worried?

Joe Marchant's move to Stade Francais was a blow to England — Joe Marchant’s move to Stade Francais was a blow to England (David Davies/PA)

Is it Borthwick’s biggest concern?

Steve Borthwick faces a number of challenges as England boss (Mike Egerton/PA)