part of the Red Bull family – and he’s one of the most recognisable players in world rugby. On-field threat + off-field branding = marketing dream.
Johnny Sexton insists there’s no bad blood between him and Finn Russell ahead of this summer’s British & Irish Lions tour to Australia – and says talk of a feud has been “blown out of proportion.”
The former Ireland skipper, who will take up the role of kicking coach for the 2025 Lions, previously raised eyebrows with remarks in his autobiography, where he hinted Russell’s media profile may have played a part in Warren Gatland’s decision to pick the Scot over him for the 2021 tour.
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Speaking on the book circuit last October, Sexton doubled down, saying he would have chosen Owen Farrell ahead of Russell – branding the Bath No.10 “flashy” in the process.
But now back in Lions camp, Sexton says it’s all water under the bridge.
“There’s been a lot made of the situation – mainly by you guys in the media,” said Sexton.
“It wasn’t even really about what I wrote in the book. It was more stuff I said when doing the media rounds. But it’s all been blown out of proportion.
“I was reflecting on how I felt back in 2021, more what I thought Gatland was thinking than my own opinion. But that’s sport. You deal with it and move on.”
“No rivalry – I’m here to help”
Sexton revealed he and Russell shared a handshake and a quick word in camp before the Bath playmaker jetted off to help his club win the Premiership final.
“He was in and out because of the final – picked up his kit, did a bit of media, then off. But we had a quick chat.
“He was outstanding in the final against Leicester. I’m looking forward to catching up with him again soon.”
And as far as any lingering tension goes, Sexton was crystal clear.
“Whatever rivalry there might have been – and I don’t think there was one – you leave it at the door. That’s what being a Lion is about.
“I’m not here to tell Finn what to do. I’m here to help him, to share my experience, to support. That’s the job.”
Russell vs Sexton: just media noise?
With Sexton now part of the Lions coaching setup and Russell likely to wear 10 in Australia, the dynamic will be closely watched. But from Sexton’s side, it’s strictly business – and all about the badge.
With Sexton now part of the Lions coaching setup and Russell likely to wear 10 in Australia, the dynamic will be closely watched. But from Sexton’s side, it’s strictly business – and all about the badge.
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- ’“15 Join the Pride” – Farrell Bolsters Lions Squad Ahead of Argentina Clash
- Champions Bath Confirm 18 Player Exits Post-Final
- Dan Cole makes his feeling clear on national anthem during Premiership final
? 6 Stars Red Bull Could Bring to Newcastle
Let’s dive into the names being discussed behind the scenes – starting with one of rugby’s true giants.
?? 1. Conor Murray
Status: Free agent
CV: 100+ Ireland caps, 3x Lions, Grand Slam winner
Why it fits: You want experience? Leadership? Big-game IQ? Conor Murray has it all. He’s just wrapped up 15 iconic years with Munster and is actively weighing up his next move.
CV: 100+ Ireland caps, 3x Lions, Grand Slam winner
Why it fits: You want experience? Leadership? Big-game IQ? Conor Murray has it all. He’s just wrapped up 15 iconic years with Munster and is actively weighing up his next move.
Racing 92 are circling, but Red Bull are believed to be pushing hard behind the scenes to hijack the move and bring him to the Premiership.
At 36, he’s not a long-term project – but as a tactical general to guide Newcastle’s rebuild, he’d be
worth every penny. A true elite organiser with box-kicking precision and icy composure.
? 2. Liam Williams
Status: Free agent
CV: Lions, Wales Grand Slam hero
Why it fits: He’s explosive, fearless, and brings real edge. At 33, he’s still electric – and ready for one more high-profile challenge. A perfect face for the Red Bull revolution.
CV: Lions, Wales Grand Slam hero
Why it fits: He’s explosive, fearless, and brings real edge. At 33, he’s still electric – and ready for one more high-profile challenge. A perfect face for the Red Bull revolution.
? 3. Zach Mercer
Status: Available
CV: England No.8, Top 14 champ
Why it fits: Still just 27 and out of contract after leaving Gloucester. He’s physical, smart, and a born leader. Toulon are sniffing – but Red Bull could beat them to it.
CV: England No.8, Top 14 champ
Why it fits: Still just 27 and out of contract after leaving Gloucester. He’s physical, smart, and a born leader. Toulon are sniffing – but Red Bull could beat them to it.
? 4. Joe Marchant
Status: In the Top 14
CV: 21 England caps, Premiership title with Quins
Why it fits: A slick centre with pace and pedigree. Bonus? He’s engaged to Alan Shearer’s daughter, Hollie – a link that might just tip the scales.
CV: 21 England caps, Premiership title with Quins
Why it fits: A slick centre with pace and pedigree. Bonus? He’s engaged to Alan Shearer’s daughter, Hollie – a link that might just tip the scales.
? 5. Freddie Burns
Status: Free
CV: Prem winner, 200+ appearances
Why it fits: Game-changer, joker, leader. Freddie brings that clutch gene – and would be a steady hand in a new-look backline. Big-game player with serious charisma.
CV: Prem winner, 200+ appearances
Why it fits: Game-changer, joker, leader. Freddie brings that clutch gene – and would be a steady hand in a new-look backline. Big-game player with serious charisma.
? 6. Jack Nowell
Status: Red Bull athlete
CV: England, Lions, Exeter legend
Why it fits: He’s already
CV: England, Lions, Exeter legend
Why it fits: He’s already
Caveat: his past issues on synthetic pitches could be a factor. But if there's a way around that, he’s a no-brainer.
