Scotland international Finn Russell determined to play as long as possible

Finn Russell has committed to representing Scotland for as long as he can and is aiming for a significant role in the national team at the 2027 World Cup.

Currently serving as Scotland’s co-captain under head coach Gregor Townsend, Russell has been rejuvenated by a summer break.

He was given time off from the recent tour to North and South America to mentally recharge, preparing for a season he hopes will conclude with the Lions’ tour to Australia.

Russell feels he is in the “best shape in a long time” after his break from rugby, a stark contrast to a few years ago when he felt burned out, leading to a dip in form, an eight-kilo weight gain, and a period of self-reflection about his international career.

“I’ll be turning 35 during the next World Cup and I’m definitely planning on making that tournament,” said Russell to TNT Sports.

“I am 32 next month and everyone is asking ‘what are you going to do after?’. But I’m thinking I’ve still got six or seven years to go.

“I’ve not got any notion of retiring any time soon, from either rugby or international rugby. I’m going to play as long as I can.

"Some players might have an idea that at 34 they will call it a day and get a job, but as long as I’m still enjoying it and playing well, there’s no point in me stopping.

“You get a lot of lows in sport but the highs you get you can’t get anywhere else. And having young kids now, I’d love for them to be old enough to remember some of my career. So I might have to play until I’m 45 if I have another one!”