Courtney Lawes Set for Premiership Return with Sale Sharks as England Legend Ends French Stint

England legend Courtney Lawes signs with Sale Sharks for 2026/27, announcing his return to the Premiership and the end of his international retirement.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 8, 2026, 6:18 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from Rugby365

A Major Homecoming for the Northern Force

Sale Sharks have secured one of the most significant transfers of the 2026 window by signing legendary forward Courtney Lawes on a one-year contract. Lawes, who has spent the last two seasons with Brive in the French second division, will officially join the "Northern Force" ahead of the 2026/27 campaign. The move marks a return to the top flight of English rugby for the 105-cap international, who previously spent 14 seasons at Northampton Saints. Lawes cited a desire to compete at the highest level and finish his storied career in the country of his birth as the primary motivators for the move.

International Ambitions and Un-Retiring from England

In a surprising development, Lawes used his signing announcement to declare his availability for the England national team once again. Having retired from international duty following the 2023 World Cup, the 37-year-old confirmed he is officially "un-retiring" and hopes to catch the eye of head coach Steve Borthwick. Lawes stated that his physical condition remains optimal and that he believes he can still compete with the world's best. If selected, his return would provide England with a wealth of experience, including four World Cup cycles and two British and Irish Lions tours.

Brive Tenure and Professional Legacy

During his time at Brive, Lawes made 37 appearances and earned widespread praise for his leadership and performance in Pro D2. The French club issued a statement expressing pride in having a "world rugby legend" wear their colors, noting that they understood his desire for a new challenge in the Premiership. Lawes reflected fondly on his time in France, describing it as a positive experience from both a human and sporting perspective. He has pledged to give his maximum effort for the remainder of the current season to ensure a strong finish for the Brive supporters before his departure.