Jack Willis strode to the stage at the iconic Paris venue of L’Olympia on Monday to accept the Top 14 Player of the Year award, cementing his status as one of the world’s premier flankers.
Jack Willis’ commitment to France now makes him ineligible for England selection, thanks to the RFU’s strict “no overseas-based players” policy.
Despite being one of the standout performers in French rugby, the 27-year-old’s World Cup hopes are on ice—unless the RFU makes a U-turn ahead of Australia 2027.
But according to the Telegraph, a potential lifeline exists: a break clause in Jack Willis’ Toulouse contract could allow him to sign for a Premiership club for the 2027-28 season, potentially making him eligible for England’s campaign in Australia.
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Loyalty Over Everything
Previously linked with Bristol Bears, Leicester Tigers, Saracens, and most recently Newcastle Red Bulls following their takeover, Jack Willis’ current four-year deal highlights just how at home he feels in Toulouse. The club has helped Jack Willis’ family, including his two young children, settle comfortably in France.
Asked about representing Steve Borthwick’s side again, Jack Willis’ respect for Toulouse is palpable. He wants to repay the faith the French club has shown him.
“I would love to (play for England),” Jack Willis told the Mail Online. “It’s something you dream of as a little kid. It’s not something you ever let go of. It’s not me who decides the rules. When I lost my job, there wasn’t an opportunity (in England) that was feasible for me.
“I then got the opportunity with Toulouse and I feel like I wanted to give back that loyalty that was shown to me. And that’s what I’ve tried to do with each match. I’m loving life out here. But as it stands, the rule is I’ve signed a long-term contract here, I can’t play for England.”
POLL:
From Wasps to Toulouse: The Jack Willis Journey
Jack Willis’ rise from Wasps to Toulouse has been remarkable. After Wasps entered administration in October 2022, Jack Willis was made redundant along with all other players and coaching staff. He joined Toulouse in November 2022 and quickly became a linchpin, captaining the side and leading them to multiple titles, including the 2024 Champions Cup and the 2025 Top 14 crown.
Jack Willis’ performances haven’t gone unnoticed. In April 2025, he was nominated for the Champions Cup Player of the Year and earned Man of the Match honors in both the Round of 16 and the quarterfinals. Despite his success in France, the RFU’s overseas player policy continues to block Jack Willis’ path back to England.
EDITORS PICKS:
2027 Rugby World Cup draw confirmed:
Each of the six pools featured a team from Bands 1, 2, 3 and 4.
The confirmed Bands based on rankings were:
Band 1: South Africa, New Zealand, England, Ireland, France, Argentina
Band 2: Australia, Fiji, Scotland, Italy, Wales, Japan
Band 3: Georgia, Uruguay, Spain, USA, Chile, Tonga
Band 4: Samoa, Portugal, Romania, Hong Kong China, Zimbabwe, Canada
2027 Rugby World Cup draw:
Pool A
New Zealand – Perennial contenders with flair, power and unmatched rugby IQ.
Australia – Unpredictable but dangerous, capable of brilliance on their day.
Chile – Fast-improving newcomers bringing passion and fearless physicality.
Hong Kong China – Skillful, energetic, and eager to prove themselves on the global stage.
Pool B
South Africa – Brutal, relentless, and brutally efficient—never count them out.
Italy – Developing rapidly, mixing strong set-piece work with expanding ambition.
Georgia – Scrum specialists with raw forward strength and growing all-round polish.
Romania – Proud and powerful, known for toughness and unwavering fight.
Pool C
Argentina – Dynamic, crafty, and fiercely competitive with a never-say-die spirit.
Fiji – Magical offloads, searing pace, and unique unpredictability.
Spain – Determined climbers building consistency and confidence every year.
Canada – Physical and committed, working to regain their traditional sharpness.
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