Top 10 International Rugby Speakers

So, let's take a look at some of the best international rugby speakers available to book.

1. DODDIE WEIR

STATISTICS

• Appearances: 158
• Points: 54
• Position: Lock

Doddie Weir is not just an interesting former rugby union player, but also a passionate advocate for Motor Neurone Disease awareness, after being diagnosed in 2017. The ideal charity fundraiser, his ongoing passion for good causes means that Doddie can resonate with audiences. He embodies resilience, perseverance and overcoming adversity, both off and on the pitch.

2. GARETH THOMAS

STATISTICS

• Appearances: 461
• Points: 905
• Position: Wing, Centre, Second-row

A formidable player, Gareth Thomas is renowned for his on-pitch sheer grit and power. However, it is off the pitch that he makes the most impact, as he was voted the most influential gay person in the UK by The Independent's Sunday Pink List. Gareth's speeches encourage audiences to embrace inclusion.

3. MICHAEL LYNAGH

STATISTICS

• Appearances: 91
• Points: 2332
• Position: Fly-Half

Having earned 72 caps for his country, Australia, Michael Lynagh went on to set the world record for most points scored when he retired. As a speaker, he holds the key to maximising success, an insight that corporate audiences greatly benefit from. Book one of the five "most accomplished Australian rugby union players", as described by former Australian rugby coach, Bob Dwyer.

4. SAM WARBURTON OBE

STATISTICS

• Appearances: 290
• Points: 130
• Position: Flanker

Since earning his first cap for Wales in 2009, Sam Warburton went on to captain his country's team for the 2011 New Zealand World Cup. As an expert on competitiveness, leadership and team cohesion, he can instill a positive workplace culture in his corporate audience. A speaker like Sam is not just highly interesting, but insightful too.

5. WILLIE JOHN MCBRIDE MBE

STATISTICS

• Appearances: 80
• Points: 7
• Position: Lock

As one of the most respected rugby union players in British and Irish history, Willie John McBride thrived during the 60s and 70s. His knowledge of some of the pinnacle moments in rugby's past excites audiences, who flock to hear Willie's anecdotes from a bygone era. In celebration of his influence, Willie was inducted into the International Rugby Hall of Fame in 1997.

6. WARREN GATLAND OBE

STATISTICS

• Appearances: 140
• Points: 0
• Position: Hooker, Head Coach

With four Six Nations titles to his name, including three Grand Slams, Warren Gatland is one of the most celebrated rugby head coaches. While managing the British and Irish Lions, he coached the team to success on their 2013 tour of Australia. A reflection of Warren's knowledge of leadership and motivating a team, he is a popular rugby leadership speaker.

7. WILL GENIA

STATISTICS

• Appearances: 272
• Points: 230
• Position: Scrum Half

Australian rugby union player, Will Genia, boasts 100 international caps, a credit to his sustainable talent. Described as the "best in the world for his position" by New Zealand's Justin Marshall, he was awarded the 2011 IRB Player of the Year award. When attending events, Will's after dinner speeches keep audiences hooked on his every word.

8. SIR IAN MCGEECHAN OBE

STATISTICS

• Appearances: 40
• Points: 24
• Position: Fly-half, Outside centre, Head Coach, Director of Rugby

Ian McGeechan was promoted to Scotland's coach in 1988. While he was in the position, the team thrived, winning a Grand Slam victory in the 1990 Five Nations Championship. Four years later he was appointed Director of Rugby, reflecting his sport-defining eye for success. A speaker like Ian can leave a lasting impression on his audiences.

9. FRANCOIS PIENAAR

STATISTICS

• Appearances: 173
• Points: 70
• Position: Flanker

Following his retirement from professional playing, Francois Pienaar won 29 international caps as South Africa's Captain. Most notable for ensuring the teams' first place finish at the 1995 South Africa Rugby World Cup, his after dinner speeches discussing 90s rugby enthrall audiences of all ages.

10. FREDDIE TUILAGI

STATISTICS

• Appearances: 157
• Points: 174
• Position: Three-Quarter

Former rugby union player and essential member of Samoa's team from 1992 to 2002, Freddie Tuilagi now uses his expertise to positively influence future players. His coaching service, Tuilagi Rugby Skills, offers popular courses to young players as well as world-renown after dinner speeches. Freddie's presentations are famed for their hilarious anecdotes and onstage confidence.

BOOK AN INTERNATIONAL RUGBY SPEAKER

To book one of our leading international players for your corporate event, function or conference, simply contact the Champions Rugby Speakers agency by filling in our online contact form. Alternatively, call a booking agent directly on 0207 1010 553.