Andy Farrell

Andy Farrell is a dual-code rugby legend turned elite international coach, widely regarded as one of sport’s most accomplished leaders. His greatest achievement to date is serving as head coach of the British & Irish Lions for the 2025 tour to Australia, a role he earned following an outstanding tenure as head coach of Ireland, where he delivered consecutive Six Nations Championships in 2023 and 2024, including a Grand Slam in 2023. A figure respected for both his playing and coaching achievements, Andy combines the rare perspective of a world-class competitor in two codes with the insight of a proven leader at the highest level.

Andy’s rise began in rugby league, making his debut for the Wigan Warriors aged just 16. Within a year he became the youngest winner of the Challenge Cup at 17 years and 11 months, and by 18 he was a full international for Great Britain. In 1996, aged only 21, he became the youngest-ever captain of the Great Britain rugby league team, leading them on tour to New Zealand, Papua New Guinea and Fiji. His years with Wigan were defined by success, with six Championships, four Challenge Cups and multiple individual honours, including the prestigious Man of Steel award in both 1996 and 2004. This early career not only demonstrated Andy’s exceptional talent but also his natural leadership qualities, setting the stage for his transition to rugby union.

In 2005, Andy switched codes to join Saracens, going on to represent England at the 2007 Six Nations and the Rugby World Cup. After retiring from playing in 2009, he moved into coaching with Saracens, helping to shape the Premiership-winning side of 2010–11. His abilities soon attracted international recognition, leading to coaching roles with England, Munster, the British & Irish Lions and, in 2016, Ireland as defence coach. In 2019, he succeeded Joe Schmidt as Ireland’s head coach, guiding the team to a historic series win over New Zealand in 2022, back-to-back Six Nations titles in 2023 and 2024, and the 2023 Grand Slam. That same year, he was named World Rugby Coach of the Year. In 2025, he led the Lions to their first Test series win in Australia since 2013.

Andy is one of the most sought-after keynote speakers in sport. His talks focus on leadership, peak performance, resilience, and team cohesion, drawing on experiences from championship-winning sides, world-class international teams, and high-pressure leadership roles. He offers unique insight into what it takes to adapt, thrive and lead in elite sport, sharing lessons that resonate far beyond the pitch. Whether discussing the discipline required to transition between two codes, the strategies behind Ireland’s rise to world number one, or the mindset needed to win at the highest level, Andy delivers with authenticity and authority. His story inspires audiences to embrace change, lead with conviction and perform under pressure.