Former England rugby captain and 2003 Rugby World Cup winner Lewis Moody has announced that he has been diagnosed with motor neurone disease (MND).
The 47-year-old, who made his name as a fearless flanker for Leicester Tigers, Bath Rugby, and England, revealed the diagnosis in an emotional interview with BBC Breakfast, admitting he is still coming to terms with the news.
“You’re given this diagnosis of MND and we’re rightly quite emotional about it, but it’s so strange because I feel like nothing’s wrong,” Moody said. “My symptoms are very minor — a bit of muscle wasting in my hand and shoulder — and I’m still capable of doing anything and everything. Hopefully that continues for as long as possible.”
Moody explained that he first noticed weakness in his shoulder during a gym session, which eventually led to further tests and the diagnosis.
In a statement released shortly after the announcement, Moody said:
“This has been incredibly hard to process and a huge shock to me and my family. 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.
Since retiring from the sport I love, Annie and I have raised over £2 million for brain tumour research through The Lewis Moody Foundation, and my plan is to continue that work while also supporting a charity closer to my current situation.”
He added that telling his family was “the hardest thing” he has had to do but thanked them, along with friends and medical professionals, for their support.
Moody enjoyed a 16-year professional career, making 223 appearances for Leicester Tigers between 1996 and 2010. During that period, he won two Heineken Cups and seven Premiership titles before joining Bath Rugby for two seasons until his retirement in 2012.
He earned 71 caps for England, captaining his country and playing a key role in the 2003 World Cup triumph under Sir Clive Woodward. Moody was awarded an MBE in 2004 for his services to rugby.
Known for his relentless energy and fearless tackling, Moody was one of the most respected players of his generation. He also represented the British and Irish Lions and was admired for his leadership both on and off the field.
Following his retirement, Moody shifted his focus to high-performance coaching and charity work, founding The Lewis Moody Foundation to support those affected by brain tumours.
RFU Chief Executive Bill Sweeney led the tributes, saying:
“We are deeply saddened to learn that Lewis Moody has been diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease.
Lewis represented England, the British and Irish Lions, Leicester Tigers, and Bath with brilliance and distinction. He was one of the toughest and most fearless players ever to wear a backrow shirt, earning respect and admiration across the rugby world.
His contribution to the game, both on and off the field, reflects the very best of rugby’s values. The entire rugby community stands with Lewis and his family, and we will support them in whatever way is needed.”
English