Statement: Prem club confirms the signing of Courtney Lawes

Tuesday, 07 April 2026 at 08:12

bySteven Smith

Sale Sharks have secured one of the biggest signings ahead of the 2026/27 season after agreeing a deal to bring veteran England forward Courtney Lawes back to the Gallagher Premiership.

The 37-year-old will join from French side CA Brive on a one-year contract, marking a return to English rugby after two seasons in the Top 14.

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A decorated career returns home

Lawes remains one of the most respected forwards of his generation, having earned 105 caps for England national rugby union team across a 14-year international career. His résumé includes four Rugby World Cup appearances and five caps for the British & Irish Lions over two tours.

At club level, he became a modern great with Northampton Saints, making nearly 300 appearances and captaining the side to Premiership glory in 2024—ending a decade-long wait for the title.

That final, against Bath, proved to be his farewell in Saints colours before taking on a new challenge in France.

One last shot at Premiership glory

Now, after two years abroad, Lawes is returning with unfinished business—joining Sale’s ambitious “Northern Force” project as they push for domestic silverware.

Speaking after the move was confirmed, Lawes said:

“I’m really excited to be joining Sale. I’ve been out of the Prem now for a couple of years and I just want to finish my career playing at the top level. Sale have got a brilliant squad so hopefully I can add to that.”

Despite approaching the latter stages of his career, Lawes insists he is still performing at an elite level:

“My body feels good and I’m still performing at a high level. I feel like I can compete with the best of them… if I retired now, I’d probably regret it.”

England comeback on the agenda?

In a surprise twist, Lawes has also hinted at a potential international return under Steve Borthwick.

“I’m officially un-retiring from international duty and I’d love to play for England again—but first and foremost I want to play well for Sale.”

The move to Sale appears to have personal significance too, with strong family ties to the area influencing his decision.

“When I decided I wanted to come back to the Prem there were only a couple of teams I would have signed for… Sale were one because my wife’s family is from Cheshire.”

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