Andy Farrell offered £1m per season to quit Ireland

Thursday, 26 February 2026 at 11:00

byRugby Rucker

Andy Farrell is reportedly being lined up for a dramatic return to Saracens once his current deal with Ireland expires following the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia.

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According to French outlet Midi Olympique, the former England and Ireland international could be set for a reunion with the North London club where he first crossed codes nearly two decades ago.

The Irish Independent has added this morning that the contract would be worth £1m per season to take the job, which would make him the highest-paid coach in the world.

From Wigan to Watford

Farrell made the high-profile switch from rugby league heavyweights Wigan Warriors to Saracens in March 2005. His transition to union was delayed by injury and a serious car accident, meaning he had to wait until the 2006 season to make his debut.

He spent three seasons at StoneX before retiring in 2009, immediately stepping into a coaching role as skills coach. A year later, he was elevated to the senior coaching team, launching a career that would take him onto the international stage.

England Exit to Ireland Success

Farrell joined the England setup but departed when Eddie Jones took charge following England’s disappointing 2015 World Cup campaign.

He later succeeded Joe Schmidt as Ireland head coach after the 2019 tournament and has since overseen one of the most successful eras in Irish rugby history — guiding Ireland to a Grand Slam in 2023 and defending their Six Nations title the following season.

He also steered the British & Irish Lions to a triumphant tour of Australia last summer, further enhancing his reputation as one of the leading coaches in the modern game, while remaining fully committed to Ireland’s long-term World Cup ambitions.

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Highest-paid rugby coaches:

5) Eddie Jones (Japan) - £600,000 per year

Eddie Jones, the head coach of the Japanese national rugby team, earns £600,000 annually. With a reputation for turning teams into formidable contenders, Jones' coaching career includes notable successes with England and Australia (first stint, not second).

His innovative strategies and rigorous training methods have made significant impacts wherever he has coached. Now leading Japan once again, Jones is tasked with continuing the team's development and competitive presence on the global stage, reflecting his high value and esteemed position in international rugby coaching.

4) Scott Robertson (New Zealand) - £600,000 per year

Scott Robertson, the head coach of New Zealand's national rugby team, is one of the highest-paid coaches with an annual salary of £600,000. Known for his dynamic coaching style and ability to foster team cohesion, Robertson has a proven track record with the Crusaders in Super Rugby.

His transition to the national team has been highly anticipated, with expectations that his innovative approach will sustain New Zealand's rugby dominance. Robertson's leadership and tactical expertise make him a key figure in the sport's elite coaching ranks.

3) Andy Farrell (Ireland) - £600,000 per year

Andy Farrell, the head coach of the Irish national rugby team, earns £600,000 per year. A former rugby league and union star, Farrell has successfully transitioned into coaching, bringing his deep understanding of the game and motivational skills to his role.

Under his guidance, Ireland has achieved significant milestones, including historic wins over top-tier teams.

Despite falling short during the 2023 Rugby World Cup, Farrell's ability to develop a resilient and competitive squad solidifies his standing as one of rugby's top-earning and most respected coaches.

2) Rassie Erasmus (South Africa) - £650,000 per year

Rassie Erasmus, the South African national team's director of rugby, earns £650,000 annually. Known for his strategic brilliance and transformative leadership, Erasmus masterminded South Africa's 2019 and 2023 Rugby World Cup victories.

His comprehensive approach to coaching, which includes a deep focus on player development and tactical innovation, has made him a pivotal figure in South African rugby. Erasmus' substantial salary reflects his critical role in maintaining the Springboks' status as a powerhouse in international rugby.

1) Steve Borthwick (England) - £700,000 per year

Steve Borthwick, the head coach of the English national rugby team, tops the list of highest-paid rugby coaches with a salary of £700,000 per year.

A former England captain and experienced coach, Borthwick is celebrated for his meticulous approach and emphasis on discipline and technical excellence. His leadership has been instrumental in shaping England's competitive strategies and overall performance.

Borthwick's substantial remuneration underscores his significant impact and the high expectations placed on him to steer England to continued success on the global stage.