According to reports from France, it appears that Racing 92 has successfully secured the services of former England captain Owen Farrell for the 2024/25 season.
According to Midi Olympique, the deal is expected to span two years, while L’Equipe suggests a three-season agreement. If confirmed, the former England captain would part ways with Saracens at the conclusion of the current season.
Farrell, a prominent rugby figure, will be notably absent from the upcoming Six Nations as he takes a hiatus from his England duties to focus on his mental well-being and that of his family.
This decision follows a challenging experience during the 2023 Rugby World Cup, where Farrell encountered booing from spectators both before, during, and after matches.
In response to these challenges, the England captain has chosen to take a step back temporarily.
If Farrell indeed makes the move to the French capital, his hiatus from international rugby may extend for up to two and a half years.
Racing 92 statement:
Translated from French to England, it reads: “Racing 92 is regularly under the aegis of many speculations about movements within its squad. We are delighted with the appeal of our Racing 92 club. However, we deny any agreement concerning English player Owen Farrell.”
Get your tickets to the 2024 Six Nations matches at viagogo, the world’s leading ticket marketplace
NIGEL OWENS DREAM XV:
Fullback: Israel Folau (Australia)
Owens said: “For me, it’s nip and tuck between Halfpenny and Folau, next to nothing to choose between them. Leigh is brilliant because under the high ball and with his kicking at goal under pressure. He may not always break the line when running but puts his body on the line in defence and is a top-notch match-winner.
“But I go for Folau – only just, I should stress – because of his ability to seemingly beat his man every time he gets the ball in his hand. He’s such an exciting player and like Leigh he is one of the best under the high ball.
“It’s a toss of a coin for me… and it’s come down in Folau’s favour.”
Winger: Stuart Hogg (Scotland)
Owens said: “How can you fail to be impressed when watching Hogg play. He’s so exciting as he burst into that line and, of course, was named Six Nations player of the tournament.
“I know he’s a full-back for Scotland, but he is so quick and direct he could easily play on the wing. He reminds me a bit of Shane Williams with some of the things he does.
“When you see who is on the other wing in my team, you’ll see how they would work brilliantly in tandem.”
Outside-centre: Brian O’Driscoll (Ireland)
Owens said: “Not only is he one of the greatest centres in the history of rugby union but he’s a fantastic man off the field as well. O’Driscoll has been a wonderful ambassador for the sport and a real leader. He always respected referees and set the right example for others to follow.
“A legend of the game who conducted himself superbly, on and off the pitch.”
Inside-centre: Ma’a Nonu (New Zealand)
Owens said: “He’s another brilliant player and after every game, win or lose, he would come up and give me a hug. Ma’a has always found time at after-match functions or at breakfast if we’ve been staying at the same hotel to come over and have a chat.
“What a player, mind, too. One of the stalwarts of the New Zealand side for so many years.”
Winger: Shane Williams (Wales)
Owens said: “When people ask me who is the best player I have refereed it’s pretty much an impossible task to pick one because I’ve been lucky enough to take charge of so many greats.
“But if I’m pushed, I would pick Shane for what he achieved after coming from football at 17 or 18 years of age.
“He was in the mould of Gerald Davies in how he left defenders gasping for air as he beat them with those dazzling sidesteps. Nobody would fancy defending against a back three of Shane, Hogg and Folau, I can tell you that.”