Brief
Jack Willis eyes possible switch from England to Ireland after Toulouse success
Willis, 29, is eligible for Ireland through a Belfast‑born grandfather but would need to join an Irish province.
By Felo News Desk · Published
Jack Willis, the 29‑year‑old Toulouse flanker who was named Top 14 player of the year for a second consecutive season, said a return to international rugby could only happen with Ireland, according to the Independent.
What happened
Willis has not played for England since the 2023 Rugby World Cup, after the RFU stopped selecting overseas‑based players. His contract with Toulouse runs to 2029, and he remains a key figure in the French club’s fourth straight title win.
What the reports add
The Independent notes that Willis qualifies for Ireland through a grandfather born in Belfast and that, under World Rugby’s three‑year stand‑down rule, he could switch nations. However, the article also points out that Ireland traditionally selects players from its four United Rugby Championship provinces, meaning Willis would likely need to sign for an Irish province to become eligible.
What was said
Willis told outlets including The Telegraph and The Times at the Nuit du Rugby in Paris: “I’m a quarter Irish, but I believe they’ve got the same rules as England… England is always something on my mind. I miss it… I’ve made my decision, I can’t change anything, except if something out of my control changes.”
How it came about
Willis moved to Toulouse after Wasps folded in 2022, quickly becoming a regular captain and earning individual accolades. His lack of England selection since 2023 has sparked speculation about a possible national allegiance change, a topic previously covered by Felo News in its rugby analyses.
Key facts
- Jack Willis was named Top 14 player of the year for the second consecutive season. (independent.co.uk)
- He has not played for England since the 2023 Rugby World Cup. (independent.co.uk)
- Willis is eligible for Ireland through a Belfast‑born grandfather. (independent.co.uk)
- Ireland typically selects players from its United Rugby Championship provinces. (independent.co.uk)
Sources
- [1] independent.co.uk — originally reported as “Could Jack Willis switch allegiance from England to Ireland?”
