Finn Russell resolves tension with Johnny Sexton before Lions tour

In preparation for the British and Irish Lions tour to Australia, which took place in June 2025, Scotland fly half Finn Russell revealed that he settled previous tensions with his Ireland counterpart, Johnny Sexton. This reconciliation was facilitated by Andy Farrell, the head coach of Ireland. Their rivalry reportedly stemmed from Sexton's past criticism of Russell, where he labeled Russell as 'flashy' and expressed a preference for playing alongside Owen Farrell instead. Despite these disagreements, Russell noted that any potential issue was resolved quickly upon their arrival for the tour, leading to a positive collaborative environment. Russell expressed satisfaction in working alongside Sexton during their training sessions, appreciating his experience and input as they prepared for the upcoming matches. The Lions tour marks Russell's third expedition with the team, following experiences in New Zealand and the fraught tour to South Africa in 2021 that was complicated by COVID-19 restrictions. Russell fondly recalled his past tours; the initial call-up to the Lions for the New Zealand tour was a thrilling experience for him, while the subsequent tour in 2021, although lacking fans and family accompaniment due to the pandemic, allowed the players to bond closely. The dynamic between Russell and Sexton was notably different as they entered this new phase of their careers. With Sexton’s valuable insights into the game and Russell's eagerness to learn from his experiences, the two athletes showcased a united front aimed at enhancing the team's chances in the upcoming series against Australia. The interaction and camaraderie among the players and coaches are expected to contribute positively to their overall squad performance, particularly as they navigate the challenges of a demanding international tour. As the Lions team embarks on their Australian journey, Russell’s reflections on the past rivalries may serve as a reminder of the importance of unity and cooperation among teammates, especially when representing a prestigious side such as the Lions. The hope is for the players to leverage their individual strengths through collaboration, ultimately working towards a successful tour in Australia, while leaving behind any lingering personal disputes that could detract from their collective effort.