Racing 92 move wouldn't scupper Owen Farrell's Lions hopes

Owen Farrell will still be available for the 2025 British and Irish Lions tour to Australia led by his father Andy if he joins Racing 92 next season.

Owen is considering a lucrative move to the Top 14 having spent his entire club career at Saracens, making him ineligible for England selection until he returns to the Gallagher Premiership.

The 32-year-old out-half has already ruled himself out of the Six Nations in order to prioritise his and his family's mental wellbeing, placing his international future in doubt.

But the Lions insist overseas-based players will be considered if Farrell wants them in his squad, even if the finish date of the Top 14 means they might be unavailable for the early games.

"We don't have a policy that closes off anyone from being selected," chief executive Ben Calveley 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."

Farrell will lead the Lions for the first time as reward for his success with Ireland, who he has led to a Grand Slam, an historic 2-1 series victory in New Zealand and to the top of the world rankings.

And he would be willing to pick Owen if his performances justify a place in the squad as the Lions aim to win their first series win since Australia in 2013.

"We'll consider everyone in regards to whether they will make a difference too the Lions touring party. That's all that matters," 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