Rory Best OBE

Rory Best OBE – Former Ireland Rugby Captain & Leadership Expert

Rory Best OBE is one of Ireland’s most decorated rugby players, renowned for his leadership, resilience, and remarkable longevity in the sport. As captain, he guided Ireland through some of their most successful years, including victories over the All Blacks and a 2018 Six Nations Grand Slam. With over 120 international caps, Rory remains a symbol of commitment, teamwork, and high performance both on and off the pitch.

Speaking Topics

Leadership under pressure
Teamwork and collaboration
Building resilience and overcoming adversity
Motivation and peak performance
Navigating high-stakes environments
The importance of preparation and strategy
Transitioning from sport to business
Maintaining composure and focus in critical moments
Creating a winning mindset
Lessons from international rugby and elite sports

Credentials & Impact

Rory Best’s international career with Ireland spanned from 2005 to 2019, making him one of the most capped players in rugby history with 124 appearances. Known for his work ethic and leadership, he captained Ireland 38 times, guiding them to historic victories over New Zealand, Australia, and South Africa.

In 2018, he led Ireland to a Six Nations Grand Slam, a career-defining achievement that cemented his place as one of the country’s greatest captains. He was also a pivotal part of four British & Irish Lions tours, where his scrummaging skills, leadership, and tenacity earned him respect on the global stage.

At club level, Rory enjoyed a stellar career with Ulster Rugby, where he played over 200 matches. His dedication to teamwork and consistency made him a cornerstone of the team for more than a decade. Off the field, Rory has committed to philanthropy, working with cancer charities and mental health organisations, highlighting his dedication to making a difference beyond sport.

Publications & Media

Rory Best released his autobiography, “Rory Best: The Autobiography”, offering a candid account of his career highs, leadership challenges, and personal journey. He is also a regular pundit and commentator for BT Sport, BBC Sport, and Virgin Media Sport, where his expertise and engaging delivery provide valuable insights into the modern game. His voice is respected across both sporting and mainstream media.

Why book Rory Best?

Rory Best OBE is an inspiring speaker who combines world-class sporting achievement with leadership lessons that resonate across business and life. His stories of captaining Ireland to victory, leading under immense pressure, and overcoming setbacks make him the ideal speaker for conferences, team events, and leadership training sessions.

To book Rory Best to speak at your event, call SpeakOut on +44 (0) 20 8914 8966. Alternatively, complete our contact form to begin your enquiry.