England's rugby union team will tour Argentina in the summer of 2026, head coach Steve Borthwick announced. The two-Test series is scheduled to take place in July, with venues and exact dates yet to be confirmed. This marks England's first visit to Argentina since 2017, when they won a two-match series 2-0 under then-coach Eddie Jones.
Borthwick Confirms Tour Plans
Speaking at a press conference, Borthwick stated: "We are delighted to confirm that England will tour Argentina in 2026. It's a fantastic opportunity for the squad to test themselves against a formidable opponent in challenging conditions." The tour is part of England's preparation for the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia.
England's Recent Form and Squad Development
England have been building depth under Borthwick, who took over in December 2022. The 2026 tour will provide valuable experience for emerging players. Argentina, known as Los Pumas, have been a rising force in world rugby, having reached the semi-finals of the 2023 Rugby World Cup.
Previous Encounters and Historical Context
England and Argentina have met 27 times, with England winning 22 matches. Their most recent encounter was in November 2024, when England won 30-29 at Twickenham. The 2026 tour will be the first time England play a Test series in Argentina since 2017.
Impact on Domestic Rugby and Player Workload
The tour will take place after the 2025-26 club season, raising concerns about player workload. However, Borthwick emphasized the importance of international tours for team cohesion and development. The Rugby Football Union (RFU) is working with Premiership clubs to manage player availability.
Looking Ahead to 2027 Rugby World Cup
The Argentina tour is a key step in England's World Cup preparations. Borthwick said: "Every match and every tour is an opportunity to grow as a team. Argentina away is one of the toughest challenges in rugby, and it will be crucial for our development."
