Andy Farrell addresses selecting son Owen for Lions and French rumours
Owen Farrell will be eligible for the British and Irish Lions in 2025, even if he decides to sign for Racing 92 in the Top 14.
That is according to Lions chief executive Ben Calveley, who stated that no one is barred from being considered for the squad.
Farrell has been linked with a move to France, with Racing reportedly ‘close’ to signing the England fly-half ahead of next season.
Two-year deal
Should that be confirmed, the playmaker will be ruled out of Red Rose selection for the duration of his contract, which reportedly goes beyond the 2025 tour to Australia.
However, the Lions’ stance is different to the Rugby Football Union’s and Calveley insists that Farrell and the other French-based players will be eligible.
“We don’t have a policy that closes off anyone from being selected,” the CEO said.
“If you just look at previous Lions tours, we’ve had people come on a tour who haven’t been playing for a national side.
“Will Greenwood is a great example, even though we are going back a way there (1997). In 2021, Finn Russell was based in France, so we don’t have any restrictions on selection.”
With Andy Farrell being named head coach, that has potentially increased the odds of his son both touring and being named captain.
The Ireland head coach has not shown favouritism in the past, though, notably suggesting that Warren Gatland picks Jonny Wilkinson over Owen for the 2013 tour.
“We’ll consider everyone in regards to whether they will make a difference too the Lions touring party. That’s all that matters,” Andy Farrell said.
“It’s about form; it’s about watching the game properly. Selection, as far as that’s concerned, is the same as for everyone else. No different.”
Owen’s prospective move
Andy Farrell also discussed his son’s prospective move to Racing, which would see him leave Saracens just over 15 years after his debut for the Londoners.
“It’s his choice. He does what he thinks is right for him in that moment in time. You can’t go wrong in that regard, can you?” the Lions boss said.
“It’s a player’s prerogative. It’s their career, and it’s a short career. You’ve got to do things that float your boat, that make you and your family happy.
“A career is all about the memories you’re going to create, not just for yourself but for others as well.
“For some, it’s the thought of devoting yourself to one club is extra, extra special and Owen has done that at Saracens.
“But if things do change, and I don’t know whether they will or they won’t, then it will be for the right reasons for doing the right thing for whatever that person needs to do to be happy.”
