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England prop Ellis Genge has committed his future to Bristol Bears after agreeing a new long-term deal to stay at the club.
Genge, 29, joined his boyhood club from Leicester Tigers in 2022 and has made 45 appearances in two spells at Ashton Gate.
A key figure for his country, the free agent is part of England’s management group and has twice captained Steve Borthwick’s side during his 62 international caps.
His renewal at Bristol strengthens Borthwick’s options following the departure of key figures, including Owen Farrell, at the end of last season.
“This club and this city mean so much to me, so I’m proud to commit my long-term future here,” Genge said after signing a deal that should keep him in English rugby beyond the next Rugby League Cup. world.
“I’ve said before that I’m as passionate about playing for Bristol as I am about playing for England, so it was an easy decision to stay.
“I loved being back here, near my family, in a city I’ve always called home, and I’m really excited about what this group of players can accomplish over the next few years.”
Genge missed England’s summer tour of New Zealand through injury but is expected to return to Borthwick’s squad ahead of November’s matches against New Zealand, Australia, South Africa and Japan.
He is likely the beneficiary of an ‘enhanced EPS’ contract, a recently introduced deal which will give the England head coach greater control over a select group of players.
Borthwick has the option to award up to 25 of these contracts, but is likely to award a smaller number initially. Although the final details are still to be ironed out, Maro Itoje and Jamie George were announced as having been offered the contracts upon renewal at Saracens last season.
Retaining Genge is a key consideration for Bristol following an offseason in which the club reduced its squad and wage bill. The club reached fifth place last season and began the new Premiership campaign with victory at Newcastle on Friday evening.
“Ellis has already achieved many great things in his career, but what excites me most about Ellis’ long-term commitment to the Bears is his hunger and desire to be even better in every part of his game, on and off the field,” Bristol director of rugby Pat Lam said.
“He is a passionate and proud Bristolian, which shines through tremendously through his leadership skills as he pushes others to give their best for the team and our community.
“We are all very happy that Ellis is staying as he is an integral part of our team, and I look forward to seeing the great things he will achieve for the club and country in the future.”
