Top 5 Rugby Speakers For Virtual Events in 2025

Sir Clive Woodward

Sir Clive Woodward has had perhaps the biggest impact on English rugby over the last 25 years as the man who led the side to their greatest ever victory. For seven years, he was England’s coach and in 2003 was on the precipice of the nation’s biggest moment in the sport. Going into the Rugby World Cup final against Australia, his incredible coaching drove the team to a 20-17 victory, securing England’s first-ever World Cup victory.

Much has happened since that iconic Jonny Wilkinson drop goal, but Sir Clive and his players have been immortalised in sporting glory ever since. And now he can bring that greatness to your virtual speaking event.

Always up to date with the latest goings-on in the sport, when booked as a rugby speaker Sir Clive can both relive his own experiences and look ahead to what is going on in the game today.

Gareth Thomas

A Welsh rugby legend, Gareth Thomas played 100 times for his country scoring 200 points. Throughout his career, he played in many Six Nations matches as a versatile wing, centre and second-rower. Gareth also enjoyed a prolific domestic career representing the likes of Bridgend, Cardiff Blues and French side Toulouse.

In 2011, he also gave rugby league a go making the transition from union to play for Welsh team Crusaders. Since retiring from the sport, he has continued to offer his views and opinions on the rugby world often in the capacity as a pundit during some of the world’s biggest matches. Gareth’s fame skyrocketed in 2009, when he came out publicly as gay making him the first rugby union player to ever do so.

A natural in front of the camera, when booked as a rugby speaker for a virtual event Gareth will discuss life at the very top of professional sport while also explaining hard-hitting subjects such as sexuality, mental health and living with HIV.

Brian O’Driscoll

A true Irish rugby legend, Brian O’Driscoll is regarded as one of the greatest players of all-time. He captained his country for nine years and played 133 times, making him the fourth highest capped Irishman in history.

As well as this, he appeared for the British and Irish Lions during four Tours and played for Leinster 186 times over 15 years. Having been inducted into the World Rugby Hall of Fame in 2016, Brian has broken a whole host of rugby records throughout his career including scoring the most tries in the Six Nations (26), scoring the most tries by an Irishman in the Heineken Cup (30) and being named ‘Player of the Tournament’ on three separate occasions in the Six Nations.

A regular face as a rugby analyst on BT Sport and ITV Sport, Brian remains an expert on the sport he once dominated and as his beloved Ireland vie for the Six Nations crown once again, who better to book for your next virtual event?

Martin Johnson CBE

Only one man in history has captained England to World Cup victory. So, having him as a rugby speaker at your virtual event is sure to be a big hit. A Leicester Tigers and England legend, he also coached his country from 2008–2011. When booked as a rugby speaker, Martin Johnson CBE can offer a unique perspective from being both a player and a coach - something not many can do.

Undoubtedly the lock’s greatest moment came during that iconic World Cup victory over Australia in 2003 and as he raised the Webb Ellis Cup above his head, he knew he had made history. As well as his success with England, he also captained Leicester Tigers during the club’s golden era, winning five league titles, two European Cups and two Anglo-Welsh Cups with the team.

One of the sport’s most recognisable personalities, Martin is an expert rugby speaker whose charismatic and likeable persona makes him a great choice for your next occasion.

Scott Hastings 

No list would be complete without a Scottish star, and Scott Hastings is one of the best. One of Scotland’s most celebrated rugby union players, earning 65 caps and becoming the nation’s most capped centre. Renowned for his formidable partnership with brother Gavin, the pair made history as the only siblings to play together in a British & Irish Lions Test match.

Scott captained the Barbarians, featured in ten Rugby World Cup matches, and played club rugby with Edinburgh Reivers before retiring in 1999.

Since then, he has become a respected pundit and television presenter, working with ITV, Sky Sports, and Setanta Sport. His natural charisma, leadership experience, and deep understanding of high-performance teams make him an engaging and motivational after-dinner speaker.

 Book a Rugby Speaker for your 2025 Virtual Event

To book a virtual rugby speaker, simply contact the Champions Rugby Speakers agency by filling in our online contact form. Alternatively, call a booking agent directly on 0207 1010 553.