John Mitchell, the head coach of the England women’s rugby team, announced that he officially became a British citizen in July. The process, which Mitchell described as a six-year journey, concluded with a citizenship test during which he noted he sang the national anthem with enthusiasm.

Mitchell, a New Zealander who previously coached the All Blacks during the 2003 men’s World Cup, expressed deep satisfaction with his new status. He emphasized that his decision was driven by his long-term involvement in English rugby and his desire to feel fully connected to the nation he represents. According to Mitchell, his identity is not solely defined by the sport, but his time in the English rugby system served as a primary motivation for seeking citizenship. He described the achievement as making his professional role feel “very whole and meaningful.”