Jamie George: Former England captain to retire at end of 2026-27

Former England captain Jamie George is to retire at the end of 2027 after agreeing a one-year contract extension with Saracens.

George is to complete the 2026-27 season for the Prem club before retiring later that year to move into a new career in the «business world», a club statement said.

The 35-year-old has been capped 105 times by England and captained his country during 2024 before acting as vice-captain to Maro Itoje.

The hooker has also been selected for the British and Irish Lions on three tours and made more than 300 appearances for Saracens, having spent his whole career at the London club.

«I have always been very open and honest and I wanted to continue to do that with regards to my retirement,» George said.

«I’m sure it seems early to be announcing this with another season to go, but I want to make sure I soak up every moment of my final season – I am more motivated than ever to finish my career at Saracens in a successful way.»

George made his international debut in 2015 and has won three Six Nations titles with England – including a Grand Slam in 2016 – and was also part of the squads that reached the World Cup final in 2019 and semi-final in 2023.

He was capped by the Lions during the tours to New Zealand in 2017 – starting all three Test matches as they drew the series – as well as South Africa in 2021, before being called-up to last summer’s squad in Australia as an injury replacement.

At club level, he joined Saracens’ academy as a 14-year-old and made his debut in 2009 before becoming a regular in their front row through their era of dominance.

He has gone on to win six Premiership titles and three European Champions Cups, with their most recent trophy the league title in 2022.

He made his 300th appearance for the club in January 2025 and has featured seven times so far this campaign.

More to follow.