England Hooker Departs Player-Led Negotiating Body
International rugby union player Jamie George has stepped down from his directorship at Team England Rugby Limited, the company he established alongside teammates to manage contract and commercial dealings with the Rugby Football Union (RFU). The change, effective from last month, was confirmed by an official update filed with Companies House.
Who Remains at the Helm?
The company's board continues to feature several high-profile England stars. Remaining directors include England captain Maro Itoje, Bristol Bears prop Ellis Genge, retired front-row and television personality Joe Marler, and former England winger Anthony Watson.
Team England Rugby Ltd was instrumental in brokering a landmark four-year agreement with the RFU, marking it as rugby's first major player-led organisation. This comprehensive deal covers player welfare, financial terms, and commercial opportunities for those representing England at Twickenham's Allianz Stadium.
George's Comments on the RPA Relationship
Following the company's formation, which signalled a new direction for England players separate from the Rugby Players Association (RPA), George was keen to clarify the relationship. He told City AM that the move was "not a complete separation from the RPA".
He emphasised ongoing support for the RPA's welfare work, stating: "We will still be encouraging people to become members of the RPA... what they do on a welfare front is second to none." George explained the primary focus of the new entity was the day-to-day management of Team England contracts.
On the field, George featured prominently for England during the recent autumn internationals. He started in victories over Australia (25-7) and New Zealand (33-19), and came off the bench in a win against Fiji (38-18). The Saracens hooker is currently sidelined with a hamstring injury, reportedly facing six weeks out, which could see him miss crucial club fixtures in the Investec Champions Cup and Premiership Rugby.
When approached for comment on George's departure, Team England Rugby Ltd did not provide an immediate statement.
