England fly-half George Ford’s wife arrived in UK as refugee after home bombed

Thursday, 13 March 2025 at 11:23

byRugby Rucker

As England prepares for the 2025 Six Nations, George Ford will aim to lead his team to glory, with wife Atdhetare Hoxha and their daughter Alarnia cheering from the stands.

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While Ford’s on-field brilliance is undeniable, his biggest win might just be the family he’s built off it.

Child Refugee Turned Restaurateur

Atdhetare’s journey to success is nothing short of remarkable. Born in Kosovo, she and her family fled their war-torn home in 1999 after their house was bombed. They arrived in Oldham with no possessions and zero knowledge of English.

"My dad started as a kitchen porter to improve his English," Atdhetare shared. "We had family businesses back home, but they were taken from us in a heartbeat. Coming here with nothing taught us resilience."

Finding Her Passion

After dabbling in hairdressing, Atdhetare discovered her true calling: food. In 2020, she opened Sorella, an Italian restaurant in Saddleworth that quickly became a local favourite. Now, her family runs four successful restaurants across Greater Manchester.

“She’s the boss,” George Ford told

The Times. “If a chef’s off sick, she jumps in without missing a beat. Me and my brother? We’re only good for making coffees or loading the dishwasher!”

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A post shared by George Ford (@george_fordy)

A Love Story with a Rugby Twist

George and Atdhetare tied the knot on 15 August 2022, and their love story got even sweeter with the birth of their daughter, Alarnia, on 23 March 2024. Reflecting on fatherhood, Ford said: “Playing for England was huge, but nothing compares to being at my daughter’s birth.”

With an inspiring partner by his side, Ford’s off-field life is just as impressive as his on-field heroics.

Bookies Predict the Lions XV to Face Australia – Two England Players Start

Forwards

1. Andrew Porter (Ireland) – 1/2

A converted loosehead prop who started his career as a tighthead, Porter is a cornerstone of Ireland’s pack with his powerful scrummaging and relentless work rate around the pitch.

2. Dan Sheehan (Ireland) – 3/10

One of the most dynamic hookers in world rugby, Sheehan offers explosive ball-carrying ability and strong set-piece play. He has become a key figure in Ireland’s recent successes.

3. Tadhg Furlong (Ireland) – 8/13

Arguably the best tighthead prop in the game, Furlong is known for his scrummaging dominance and remarkable skills in open play, often moving like a back despite his size.

4. Maro Itoje (England) – 1/5

The only Englishman in the starting XV, Itoje is a world-class lock with exceptional athleticism, lineout expertise, and a knack for disrupting opposition attacks. A Lions veteran, he’ll be vital for the tour.

5. Joe McCarthy (Ireland) – 1/2

A rising star in Irish rugby, McCarthy has made a huge impact with his physicality and work rate in Leinster’s second row. He’s quickly becoming a dominant force in European rugby.

6. Josh van der Flier (Ireland) – 1/3

The 2022 World Player of the Year, Van der Flier is an outstanding openside flanker with relentless tackling, breakdown skills, and an ability to pop up in crucial moments.

7. Ben Earl (England) – 4/9

England’s standout forward in recent tournaments, Earl’s dynamic ball-carrying, high work rate, and speed make him a perfect fit for the Lions’ back row.

8. Caelan Doris (Ireland) – 1/4

One of the best No.8s in world rugby, Doris combines intelligence, strength, and leadership. His ball-carrying ability and defensive prowess make him an essential selection.

Backs

9. Jamison Gibson-Park (Ireland) – 1/3

Originally from New Zealand, Gibson-Park has revolutionized Ireland’s attack with his fast tempo and crisp distribution. His quick decision-making will be key in Australia.

10. Finn Russell (Scotland) – 1/4

A mercurial fly-half known for his creativity, pinpoint kicking, and unpredictable attacking play, Russell is the X-factor the Lions will need to unlock Australia’s defence.

11. James Lowe (Ireland) – 1/8

A powerful winger with a cannon of a left boot, Lowe has been a game-changer for Ireland, providing pace, physicality, and superb finishing ability.

12. Bundee Aki (Ireland) – 1/5

One of the most destructive centres in world rugby, Aki blends power with slick handling and defensive solidity. His recent form makes him a nailed-on Lions starter.

13. Huw Jones (Scotland) – 1/2

A classy centre with a sharp rugby brain, Jones is known for his attacking lines, pace, and ability to break defences. He has returned to top form for Scotland.

14. Duhan van der Merwe (Scotland) – 1/16

A giant winger with terrifying pace and strength, Van der Merwe has been a try-scoring machine for Scotland and was one of the stars of the 2021 Lions tour.

15. Hugo Keenan (Ireland) – 1/5

One of the most consistent full-backs in world rugby, Keenan is rock solid under the high ball, defensively sound, and a dangerous attacking threat.

This projection underscores Ireland's strong presence, with ten players expected to start, reflecting their recent dominance in international rugby. Scotland contributes three players, notably in key backline positions, while England's representation is limited to Maro Itoje in the forwards.

The selection process for the Lions is always a topic of intense debate, influenced by players' form, fitness, and performances in the lead-up to the tour. As the 2025 tour approaches, these odds may shift, especially with upcoming international fixtures and domestic competitions providing players with opportunities to stake their claims.

Note: The odds presented are based on current bookmaker predictions and are subject to change as the tour date nears.

You’ll have to be red-hot to get 15/15 in this 2010s Six Nations quiz

The Six Nations Championship, Europe’s premier rugby tournament, has delivered unforgettable moments and showcased some of the game’s greatest players.

From stunning tries to epic battles, the 2010s were packed with rugby brilliance.

Can you name the players who lit up the tournament during this golden decade? You’ll need to be on top form to get 15/15—are you up for the challenge? Let’s kick off!

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