Former rugby union player and record breaker Jason Leonard is known as one of the most capped players of all time and, despite his retirement, has remained heavily involved in the sport by working as a sports speaker and ambassador at rugby union after dinner speaker events. Born in Barking, Jason Leonard is known for his long-standing career with Harlequins and his numerous appearances and victories with the English and Irish Lions. Continuing to work as a rugby speaker for both the Lions and the Harlequins Leonard boasts proudly of his former record (held until 2013) as the world’s most capped forward after he appeared in almost 120 England rugby union matches.
Despite losing this title to New Zealand rugby speaker Richie McCaw Leonard continues to hold legendary status amongst England and Ireland fans and will forever be remembered by his nickname: 'The Fun Bus'.
Also previously holding the record of most winning international caps (a position lost to Australian rugby speaker George Gregan in 2006) Jason Leonard appeared in no less than five Lions’ victories and was part of a squad awarded arguably the most sought after title in rugby union, The Grand Slam, four times in 1991, 1992, 1995 and 2003. An incredibly popular after-dinner speaker Jason Leonard is also frequently called upon to discuss the World Cup win of 2003 in which England beat Australia 20-17. Leonard’s own passion for the sport is infectious and his memories and anecdotes are sure to entertain any crowd. As well as working as a sports speaker, Jason Leonard is the Lead Ambassador for the rugby charity Wooden Spoon as well as Sparks, the children's medical research charity.
Helping charities is a keen interest of Jason's, being so passionate that he founded his own charity The Atlas Foundation. He founded this charity to harness the power that rugby holds in order to improve the lives of young people living in poverty worldwide. Today he stands as the chairman of the foundation, overlooking the operation of its mission. Jason has also been the subject of television shows, featuring on This Is Your Life in 2000. In 2012 Jason was presented with The Prince Obolensky Award, which was awarded for his association with the rugby union and embodying the Corinthian Spirit.
How to hire Jason Leonard
Contact the Champions Speakers Agency to provisionally enquire about hiring Jason Leonard for your next event, today. To get in touch, simply call an official booking agent on 0207 1010 553 or email us at [email protected] for more information.
** We do not accept requests for autographs, signed merchandise, fan mail, birthday messages or any other non-commercial contact with the speakers or acts. Each speaker on the website may not have necessarily worked with Champions in the past but are known to perform such engagements within the industry.
"Please can you pass on our huge thanks to Jason Leonard for Friday night. He was absolutely brilliant... and patient with the slightly squiffy guests although I did my very best to get him out and on the road in time! What a lovely man. The feedback has been fantastic and for a small club like us it's invaluable." - Amanda, Mowden Park
"The event went really well, thanks and Jason did a great job. He was great in the Q&A and was great when interacting with guests." - Octagon
