Bath Rugby have pulled off a major coup by tying down superstar fly-half Finn Russell on a bumper new deal that runs until June 2028.
The British & Irish Lions magician is now one of the highest-paid players in the game, with his new contract reportedly worth a staggering £1 million per season — a jaw-dropping £3 million package over three years.
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Russell had been linked with a move away, with both Racing 92 — his former club — and Bristol Bears reportedly interested in luring the mercurial playmaker. But Bath have managed to fend off the competition to keep hold of their marquee No.10.
Russell joined Bath in 2023 on an initial three-year deal and has since made a massive impact. He’s racked up 45 appearances and 420 points across all competitions — including four tries — and finished the 2024/25 season as the Gallagher Premiership’s leading points scorer with 183 points.
That form played a key role in Bath’s historic campaign, as Johann van Graan’s side completed a domestic and European treble. Now, the 32-year-old will remain central to the club’s ambitions for the next three seasons.
“I have loved my time here at Bath. It’s a great team and a great club. We’ve come a long way over the last couple of years, and I am really looking forward to staying here and seeing what the club can achieve,” Russell said.
“The fans have been outstanding since I got here. We’ve had some big results at home and that’s just our way of giving back to the fans and trying to represent them in the right way.
“The way the club is developing and with the young players coming through, the belief and confidence that we’ve got week-to-week is just growing. There are some brilliant new signings coming in as well who will be great additions to the club, and I can’t wait to get started next season.”
Bath’s Head of Rugby, Johann van Graan, hailed the news as a major boost for the club’s long-term project.
“It’s amazing news. Finn is one of the world’s best 10s, a player who performs in the big moments and more importantly he’s an incredible team man and a family man. He is one of the lads, his training is exceptional, and he’s added so much to our group.
“It’s great that he’ll be staying on at Bath Rugby and continuing his journey with the Blue, Black and White.”
With interest from abroad and closer to home brushed aside, Bath fans can now look forward to seeing Russell continue to light up The Rec until at least 2028.
EDITORS PICKS
Owen Farrell and Two Springboks Named on Controversial ‘Most Hated’ Rugby List
Rugby might be a game rooted in respect, but that doesn’t mean every player is a fan favourite.
In fact, some names seem to exist purely to wind up the opposition — whether it’s for dirty play, endless sledging, off-field antics, or just being toodamn good.
With old villains like Johnny Sexton and Dan Biggar hanging up their boots, a fresh crop of love-to-hate stars has taken over. And yes, two Springboks have made the cut — with one storming to the top of the list.
A new fan poll has settled the debate (for now): these are the players supporters love to loathe. And the name at number one? It might just shock you
#6. Eben Etzebeth (South Africa/Sharks)
Position: Lock
Caps: 131 (as of 2025)
Major Honours: 🏆 2x Rugby World Cup winner (2019, 2023)
A walking menace on the field, Etzebeth is the definition of a player you love on your team and loathe on the opposition. Brutal in the tackle, master of the dark arts in the ruck, and never far from an off-the-ball scrap. His sheer physical dominance and fiery temperament make him a nightmare for rivals.
That being said, many fans admire his old-school enforcer mentality — just as long as he’s not slamming your favourite player into next week.
RUCK Verdict:
“One of the game’s last true hard men — and one of the most divisive.”
#5. Owen Farrell (England/Racing 92)
Position: Fly-Half/Centre
Caps: 112
Major Honours: 🏉 England captain, 3x Six Nations titles, 3x Lions tours
Once the undisputed No.1 on this list, Farrell has seen the hate ease up a bit since stepping away from England duty in 2024. But don’t be fooled — his infamous “shoulder-first” tackling style, fiery competitiveness, and snarling leadership still rile up fans and pundits alike.
Farrell’s critics point to repeated high tackles and lenient disciplinary treatment, while supporters admire his elite mentality and unwavering loyalty. It’s sad his world-class talent isn’t recognised due to his constant role as the pantomime villain, as a lot of the 2025 Lions coverage has shown.
RUCK Verdict:
“Still England’s pantomime villain — unless he’s your guy. Then he walks on water.”
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