England's former captain and his country's record points holder, Farrell is one of rugby's most recognisable figures. This week he opened up about his transition to Racing 92 and life in a new country. In an exclusive interview with Midi Olympique, Farrell reflected on adapting to the Top 14, his role at Racing, and the challenges ahead.
After a stellar career with Saracens, England and the British and Irish Lions, the 33-year-old's departure from English rugby marked the end of an era. His decision to join Racing 92 has been met with anticipation, as fans and pundits alike wonder how his game will evolve in the high-intensity French competition.
The 112-times fly-half admits that adjusting to life in France has been a challenge, both on and off the pitch. “I have a long way to go with my French,” he told Midi Olympique. While some might have expected him to be a leader straight away, Farrell acknowledges that it takes time to assume such a role in a new environment. “Nobody is going to come to a new club and hope to become the boss,” he said, suggesting he will seek to gradually earn his place in the team hierarchy.
Joining Racing 92 meant leaving behind his long tenure with Saracens and stepping into the frenetic world of the Top 14. While the team hasn't had the start to the season they would have hoped for, currently lying tenth in the table (two wins, three losses), Farrell remains optimistic. “We work hard every day to move in the right direction,” he said, confident that Racing 92 will soon hit their stride - starting with a match against Toulon this Saturday.
Farrell’s arrival in Paris was met with great expectations, given his vast experience and leadership qualities. But in a team with a proud history, it seems that even a player of his stature must first adapt before leading. His recent decision to hand over the goal-kicking duties to rising star Nolann Le Garrec, due to a minor muscle issue, demonstrates his willingness to support his teammates and play a role where he is most needed at any given time.
Farrell Sr, soon to be British and Irish Lions head coach, was in Paris recently to see his son help his new team defeat Clermont. As ever, Farrell wouldn't be drawn on any father-son conversations when asked if Andy had offered opinions on Owen's performance, or that of the team. "He was just happy to come here and see how happy and well settled our family was in France."
Despite some early challenges in adapting to the Top 14, Farrell remains focused on helping Racing 92 achieve their goals. When asked about his personal targets, he was quick to turn the conversation back to the team: “We all want to be better than we've been before.”
Farrell's tenure in France also means a new chapter in his Test career. Leaving for foreign shores currently means closing the door on any further England ambitions, leaving the British and Irish Lions tour to Australia next summer as his only potential international involvement in the near future - having made three previous tours. However, he was non-committal about his chances of selection, noting: “It’s possible but I’m not sure... I have other goals, in the short and medium term.”
Never one to give too much away, Farrell will continue to let his rugby do the talking as he adapts to life in Paris. It will be fascinating to see how his time at Racing 92 unfolds. What is certain, though, is that this rugby journey remains one of evolution, and Farrell's story is far from finished.
Owen Farrell's career highlights:
- Guinness Men's Six Nations winner (2016*, 2017, 2020)
- British and Irish Lions Test series win in 2013 (Australia) and draw in 2017 (New Zealand)
- 6 x Premiership Rugby winner (2011, 2015, 2016, 2018, 2019, 2023)
- 3 x European Rugby Champions Cup winner (2016, 2017, 2019)
- European Player of the Year (2017, 2018)
*Grand Slam
