Lewis Moody, the former England captain and 2003 Rugby World Cup winner, has revealed he has been diagnosed with motor neurone disease, becoming the latest high-profile rugby figure to be affected by the devastating condition.

• Lewis Moody, 47, diagnosed with motor neurone disease two weeks before public announcement
• Former England captain discovered condition after noticing shoulder weakness during gym training
• Moody won 2003 Rugby World Cup and seven Premiership titles with Leicester Tigers
• Rugby community launches fundraising initiatives to support Moody family and MND research
• Latest in concerning trend of elite rugby players diagnosed with degenerative condition

The 47-year-old, who lifted multiple English and European titles with Leicester Tigers during a glittering 16-year playing career, disclosed his diagnosis in an emotional interview two weeks after receiving the news. Speaking candidly about his reluctance to fully process the implications of living with MND, Moody emphasised his determination to focus on the present whilst making necessary preparations for an uncertain future.

Sharing some news ❤️ pic.twitter.com/9YIMucQh6l

— Lewis Moody (@LewisMoody7) October 6, 2025

The diagnosis

Moody first noticed something amiss whilst training in the gym, when he experienced weakness in his shoulder. After physiotherapy failed to resolve the issue, further medical investigation revealed the stark reality. Scans showed that nerves in his brain and spinal cord had been damaged by MND, the progressive disease that attacks the motor neurones controlling movement, speech, swallowing and breathing.

“There’s something about looking the future in the face and not wanting to really process that at the minute,” Moody told BBC Breakfast alongside his wife Annie. “It’s not that I don’t understand where it’s going. We understand that. But there is absolutely a reluctance to look the future in the face for now.”

The disconnect between diagnosis and physical reality has proved particularly difficult to reconcile. Moody described feeling emotionally affected by the news whilst simultaneously feeling as though nothing was wrong, with only minor muscle wasting in his hand and shoulder. “I don’t feel ill. I don’t feel unwell,” he explained. “I’m still capable of doing anything and everything. And hopefully that will continue for as long as is possible.”

A glittering rugby career

Moody’s diagnosis represents another cruel blow for the rugby community. The former flanker made 223 appearances for Leicester Tigers between 1996 and 2010, winning seven Premiership titles and two European Cups. His fearless, relentless approach to the game earned him the nickname ‘Mad Dog’ amongst teammates and supporters.

Moody won 71 England caps between 2001 and 2010, captaining his country 12 times, and toured New Zealand with the British and Irish Lions in 2005, where he appeared in all three Tests and scored a try in the final Test. His defining moment came as part of England’s 2003 Rugby World Cup triumph, when he came on as a replacement in the final against Australia. In the decisive passage of play, Moody claimed a ball at the back of the line-out, setting the platform for Matt Dawson to snipe and Jonny Wilkinson to kick the match-winning drop goal.

Stories of his commitment to the cause are legendary – he once played through a stress fracture in his leg and sparked a training-ground scuffle with teammate Martin Johnson when, frustrated, he abandoned a tackle pad and started throwing himself into tackles. Such dedication earned him an MBE for services to rugby in 2004.

The hardest conversations

Whilst Moody has adopted a pragmatic approach to his own situation, the emotional toll of informing loved ones has proved overwhelming. Telling his two sons – 17-year-old Dylan, a goalkeeper for Southampton and England Under-18s, and 15-year-old Ethan – was described as “the hardest thing I’ve ever had to do”.

“They are two brilliant boys and that was pretty heartbreaking,” Moody recalled. “We sat on the couch in tears, Ethan and Dylan both wrapped up in each other, then the dog jumped over and started licking the tears off our faces, which was rather silly.”

The diagnosis also carries particular poignancy for his mother. “It’s never me that I feel sad for,” Moody said. “It’s the sadness around having to tell my mum – as an only child – and the implications that has for her.”

Living in the present

Motor neurone disease can progress rapidly, with the MND Association noting that the condition kills a third of people within a year and more than half within two years of diagnosis, as swallowing and breathing become increasingly difficult. Treatment can only slow deterioration, with no cure currently available.

Faced with such stark realities, the Moody family has chosen to embrace the present. “There is no cure and that is why you have to be so militantly focused on just embracing and enjoying everything now,” he explained. “As Annie said, we’ve been really lucky that the only real decision I made when I retired from playing was to spend as much time with the kids as possible. We don’t get those years back.”

In a statement, Moody emphasised his intention to continue living life fully: “I feel fit and well in myself and I’m focused on staying positive, living life and dealing with the changes I will experience as they come”.

Rugby’s MND crisis

Moody’s diagnosis adds his name to a distressing roll call of rugby players affected by motor neurone disease. Fellow players Doddie Weir and Rob Burrow both died from the illness in recent years, whilst former Leicester and Gloucester second row Ed Slater also lives with the disease and is now in a wheelchair, struggling to speak without the help of a computer programme.

A knee problem had prevented Moody from participating in the inaugural 745 Game last autumn, a fundraising cross-code match created by Burrow and Slater. Burrow died in June 2024. Now Moody finds himself part of the cause rather than a supporter. “I feel slightly selfish in a way that I’ve been reluctant to reach out to anyone, to Ed,” Moody admitted. “But there will be a time when I can. And I would like to as well. If they’re watching – I’m not ready yet, but I absolutely will [be].”

Elite athletes are disproportionately affected by MND, with research on Italian footballers suggesting the disease rate is up to six times higher than in the general population. The prevailing theory suggests that regular strenuous exercise, by limiting oxygen availability and damaging motor neurone cells, can trigger the disease in those already genetically susceptible.

Heartfelt tributes pour in

The rugby family has immediately rallied behind one of its most beloved figures, with moving tributes highlighting both Moody’s on-field brilliance and his character off the pitch.
British and Irish Lions Chair Ieuan Evans paid an emotional tribute to Lion #723, saying: “We are all greatly saddened to hear the news of Lewis Moody’s diagnosis. Lewis has given rugby so much throughout his excellent career.

“As a player Lewis inspired so many fans during a glittering career that included his club spells with Leicester Tigers and Bath Rugby, a memorable time with his country England – where he played such a big part in their unforgettable 2003 Rugby World Cup win – as well as wearing the famous red Lions jersey including scoring a try in the final Test against New Zealand in 2005.

“On behalf of everyone at The British & Irish Lions we are all thinking of Lewis and his family at this difficult time.”

Leicester Tigers, where Moody enjoyed the most successful period of his career, released a deeply personal statement reflecting on their former star’s impact both on and off the field. Chief Executive Andrea Pinchen said: “The figures, trophies and awards tell you what an incredible player Lewis was, but that is only half the story.

“As an individual, his commitment to his club along with his warmth and passion shone through, which endeared him to teammates, staff and supporters alike. Always looking to help others, Lewis together with Annie have worked tirelessly through the Lewis Moody Foundation, supporting research into brain tumours and helping affected families.

“I know everyone connected with the club will want to pass on their best wishes and support to Lewis and his family in any way they can.”]

The Tigers statement concluded: “I know the Tigers Family will join me in letting Lewis, Annie and their family know that our thoughts and support are with them always.”

Former Leicester teammates Leon Lloyd and Geordan Murphy have launched a GoFundMe page to support the Moody family and associated charities, with the club encouraging supporters to contribute.

Rugby Football Union CEO Bill Sweeney described Moody as “one of the toughest and most fearless players ever to don a backrow shirt in the game, earning the respect and admiration of teammates, opponents, and supporters alike all over the world.”

Sweeney added: “His contribution to rugby, both on and off the field, reflects the very best of our sport’s values. Our thoughts are with Lewis and his family and friends at this very difficult time as they come to terms with this diagnosis and I know the entire rugby community stands with them and will support them.”

Looking ahead

Moody and his wife Annie have raised over £2m for brain tumour research through the Lewis Moody Foundation over the past 12 years. He now intends to continue that charitable work whilst also supporting causes closer to his current situation, though he has asked for space to determine what form that will take.

“I am being well supported by my family, friends and medical professionals and I’m truly grateful to those who, in their time, helped progress research to support others, like me, living with this disease,” Moody said in his statement.

Moody has already informed close friends including Martin Johnson about his diagnosis, but many former teammates will be learning the news alongside the public. “There will be a time when we’ll need to lean on their support but, at the minute, just having that sort of love and acknowledgment that people are there is all that matters,” he said.

“Rugby is such a great community. I said to the kids the other day, I’ve had an incredible life. Even if it ended now, I’ve enjoyed all of it and embraced all of it and got to do it with unbelievable people. When you get to call your passion your career, it’s one of the greatest privileges. To have done it for so long with the teams that I did it with was a pleasure. And I know they will want to support in whatever way they can and I look forward to having those conversations.”

As rugby confronts yet another devastating MND diagnosis amongst its alumni, Moody’s courage in sharing his story and determination to focus on living – rather than dwelling on an uncertain future – provides both inspiration and a sobering reminder of the price some pay for sporting glory. The outpouring of support from across the rugby world demonstrates the deep affection and respect in which he is held, ensuring that whatever lies ahead, he will not face it alone.

Steve Borthwick has delivered a clear signal about England’s direction by omitting Owen Farrell from his 36-man squad for the autumn internationals, despite the former captain’s return to Saracens making him eligible for selection once again.

• Owen Farrell omitted from 36-man training squad despite Saracens return
• Captain Maro Itoje to rehab concussion but won’t train during camp
• Ollie Lawrence returns after six-month Achilles injury layoff
• Three fly-halves selected: George Ford, Fin Smith and Marcus Smith
• England face Australia, Fiji, New Zealand and Argentina in November

The most striking absence from the squad announced on Sunday was that of Farrell, whose international future remains shrouded in uncertainty. The 33-year-old fly-half has not featured for England since the 2023 World Cup, having taken a sabbatical from international rugby before his stint with Racing 92 in Paris. Although he proved his fitness during a late call-up to the British and Irish Lions tour of Australia this summer, Borthwick has chosen to look elsewhere for his playmaking options.

<blockquote class=”twitter-tweet”><p lang=”en” dir=”ltr”>Back in camp 🏕️<br><br>Steve Borthwick has named a 36-player squad for a three-day training camp ahead of the forthcoming <a href=”https://twitter.com/QuilterNations?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw”>@QuilterNations</a&gt;.<a href=”https://twitter.com/O2?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw”>@O2</a&gt; | <a href=”https://twitter.com/hashtag/WearTheRose?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw”>#WearTheRose</a&gt; <a href=”https://t.co/XZJWFZlw7G”>pic.twitter.com/XZJWFZlw7G</a></p>&mdash; England Rugby (@EnglandRugby) <a href=”https://twitter.com/EnglandRugby/status/1967166436293632391?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw”>September 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src=”https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js&#8221; charset=”utf-8″></script>

Instead, the England head coach has selected George Ford, Fin Smith and Marcus Smith as his fly-halves, signalling a competitive battle for the number 10 jersey ahead of a challenging November schedule that includes Tests against Australia, Fiji, New Zealand and Argentina.

The most encouraging news for England comes with the return of Ollie Lawrence, who has made a remarkably swift recovery from the serious Achilles injury that ended his Six Nations campaign and dashed his hopes of making the Lions tour. The Bath centre, who has documented his rehabilitation journey on social media including time spent in a hyperbaric oxygen chamber, returned to action as a substitute in Bath’s pre-season friendly against Munster on Friday.

Lawrence’s recovery timeline has exceeded all expectations, with the 25-year-old initially feared to be sidelined for the entire 2025-26 season. His inclusion provides Borthwick with crucial experience in the midfield, alongside inside centre options Seb Atkinson and Fraser Dingwall.

Captain Maro Itoje will be present at England’s three-day training camp in Surrey but will not participate in any on-field activities as he continues his rehabilitation from the concussion sustained during the final Lions Test against Australia on August 2. The 30-year-old lock failed a Head Injury Assessment after just 27 minutes of that match and has been carefully managed in his return to rugby activities.

Saracens have granted Itoje an additional week off beyond the mandatory post-Lions tour rest period, reflecting the serious nature of head injuries in modern rugby. While there are currently no concerns about his availability for the autumn series, Borthwick is taking no chances with his captain’s wellbeing.

Four other Lions tourists will use the camp for rehabilitation rather than full training. Tom Curry, Elliot Daly, Will Stuart and Immanuel Feyi-Waboso all join Itoje in the medical room, with various complaints keeping them from full participation. Feyi-Waboso, in particular, has endured an injury-disrupted year after missing most of the latter half of last season with a shoulder problem.

The Exeter Chiefs wing’s inclusion demonstrates Borthwick’s faith in the promising talent, despite his limited game time in recent months. Similarly, the presence of the Curry twins and Daly underlines their continued importance to England’s plans, even as they work back to full fitness.

Beyond Farrell’s high-profile absence, several other established names have been overlooked. Harlequins number eight Alex Dombrandt, Bath centre Max Ojomoh and Bristol scrum-half Harry Randall have all missed out, suggesting Borthwick is satisfied with his current depth in those positions.

The hooker situation has seen a significant change, with Theo Dan losing his central contract over the summer and being overlooked entirely. Leicester’s Jamie Blamire has been preferred alongside the experienced duo of Luke Cowan-Dickie and Jamie George.

In the second row, George Martin’s continued absence due to knee and shoulder injuries dating back to February leaves England light on experience, though the presence of Ollie Chessum and Charlie Ewels provides some reassurance.

The squad represents Borthwick’s ongoing philosophy of blending youth with experience. Newcomers Guy Pepper and Seb Atkinson, who impressed during the summer tour victories over Argentina, retain their places alongside returning Lions stars Tommy Freeman, Alex Mitchell and Henry Pollock.

The back three selection offers particular excitement, with George Furbank, Tommy Freeman and Tom Roebuck competing alongside rehabilitation cases Feyi-Waboso and Daly. The inclusion of Oscar Beard and Will Muir suggests Borthwick is keen to develop depth across the backline.

Speaking about the contracts announced in August, Borthwick had emphasised the importance of building towards future success: “These contracts, together with our strong relationship with the Prem clubs, will continue to play an important role in the ongoing development of England Rugby.”

That development will face its sternest test when England begin their autumn campaign against Australia on November 1, before facing Fiji, New Zealand and Argentina. The absence of Farrell, whether temporary or permanent, marks the end of an era for a player who captained England to a World Cup final just two years ago.

England head coach Steve Borthwick has announced his 25-man enhanced Elite Player Squad for the 2025/26 season, with British and Irish Lions tourist Henry Pollock earning his first central contract despite having made just a single Test appearance.

Introducing our Enhanced Elite Player Squad 🤩

Head coach Steve Borthwick has announced the 25 men’s players that have been awarded Enhanced Elite Player Squad contracts for the 2025/26 season.

— England Rugby (@EnglandRugby) August 11, 2025

The 20-year-old Northampton flanker, who scored two tries in a 32-minute cameo during England’s 68-14 demolition of Wales in March, has been rewarded for his meteoric rise that culminated in selection for the Lions’ victorious tour of Australia this summer.

Pollock is joined by fellow back-row Tom Willis in earning an enhanced deal for the first time, with the Saracens number eight having impressed during England’s recent series victory over Argentina after returning to the international fold following an 18-month absence.

The contracts, worth approximately £150,000 each, give England final say over players’ medical care and conditioning while replacing match fees with a fixed annual salary. They form part of the Men’s Professional Game Partnership designed to ensure optimal preparation for the national team.

Perhaps the most significant omission is Owen Farrell, who returns to Saracens this season after his year-long stint at French side Racing 92. Despite touring with the Lions as captain this summer, the 33-year-old fly-half has been overlooked, with Borthwick maintaining three specialist number 10s in George Ford, Fin Smith and Marcus Smith.

Borthwick has previously hinted that Farrell will need to prove his form at club level before any international recall, stating the veteran playmaker should “concentrate on his performances for Saracens” upon his return to English rugby. Farrell is notably the only England international from the Lions tour not to receive a central contract.

Saracens hooker Theo Dan is the only player from the original group of 17 enhanced contracts to lose his deal, replaced by Sale’s Luke Cowan-Dickie. Dan managed just two replacement appearances across the autumn and Six Nations campaigns and struggled with his lineout throwing during the Argentina tour.

Among the other new additions are Harlequins prop Fin Baxter, who excelled against the Pumas, Sale flanker Ben Curry – joining twin brother Tom on the list – Leicester tighthead Joe Heyes, Saracens utility back Elliot Daly, Sale wing Tom Roebuck and Bath prop Will Stuart.

The back-row represents England’s greatest depth of quality, with five specialist forwards now holding central contracts. Alongside the Curry twins and Ben Earl, the inclusion of Willis and Pollock reflects this area of strength, though Sam Underhill remains outside the group despite his impressive displays in Argentina.

The forward pack has been significantly bolstered with the addition of three props. After Ellis Genge was the sole front-rower in the original group, Baxter, Stuart and Heyes join him, reflecting England’s improved scrummaging under forwards coach Tom Harrison.

In the backs, Alex Mitchell remains the only scrum-half with an enhanced deal, with the pecking order behind him still to be established following the promising showings of Ben Spencer and Jack van Poortvliet in Argentina.

Bath centre Ollie Lawrence retains his contract despite currently rehabilitating from an Achilles injury sustained during the Six Nations, demonstrating Borthwick’s faith in the 25-year-old’s long-term importance to the squad.

The Lions tour appears to have significantly influenced selections. Pollock’s inclusion despite minimal Test experience reflects his impressive performances in the Lions jersey, where his dynamic carrying and breakdown work caught the eye of selectors. Daly’s return to the enhanced group comes after he forced his way back into England contention during the Six Nations before earning Lions selection, though a fractured arm curtailed his tour.

The contracts arrive amid ongoing uncertainty surrounding the proposed R360 breakaway league, which is reportedly close to signing up to 10 current England internationals. However, there is no suggestion these deals have been improved to counter that threat.

“I am pleased to name the players who will receive an enhanced EPS contract this season,” said Borthwick. “These contracts, together with our strong relationship with the Premiership clubs, will continue to play an important role in the ongoing development of England Rugby.”

The 25 contracted players are drawn from the wider 50-player EPS squad, with Sale Sharks, Saracens and Northampton Saints each contributing five players to the enhanced group. George Martin’s retention alongside two other locks in Maro Itoje and Ollie Chessum emphasises his value as a lineout operator and ball-carrying option in the engine room.

The decision to include three fly-halves reflects the healthy competition in that position, with Marcus Smith having sparkled in November before Fin Smith emerged during the Six Nations, while George Ford retook the reins impressively during the summer tours of Argentina and the United States.

Tom Roebuck’s inclusion rewards his breakthrough performances on the wing, while Immanuel Feyi-Waboso retains his place despite being suspended for two of England’s three summer fixtures. The Exeter wing’s explosive pace and game-breaking ability are clearly valued long-term assets.

Henry Slade maintains his position in the group despite slipping out of the front-line 23 towards the end of the Six Nations. The 32-year-old’s versatility and experience are clearly valued by Borthwick, who appreciates adaptability more than most coaches.

With the autumn internationals beginning against Australia on November 1st, these contracts provide Borthwick with greater control over his key players’ preparation while rewarding those who have impressed during a promising period for English rugby. The enhanced deals represent a significant investment in England’s future, with the majority of recipients still young enough to feature prominently in the 2027 World Cup cycle.

The omission of several promising players, including Chandler Cunningham-South, Freddie Steward and Henry Arundell, suggests fierce competition for places remains across the squad, while the inclusion of relative newcomers like Pollock demonstrates Borthwick’s willingness to reward form and potential over experience alone.