• CEO says even vote of no confidence will not get him out
• Sweeney distances himself from Borthwick appointment

Bill Sweeney has revealed he is determined to stay on as the Rugby Football Union’s chief executive until 2027 – even if he loses a forthcoming vote of no confidence – and refused to apologise for accepting a £358,000 bonus amid record losses and redundancies.

Sweeney also distanced himself from the appointment of Steve Borthwick as England head coach two years ago – the most significant decision during his tenure – on the eve of a make-or-break Six Nations campaign that could pile more pressure on the embattled chief executive.