Sir Bill Beaumont, born on 9 March 1952, in Chorley, Lancashire, is a distinguished figure in rugby union, celebrated for his contributions both on and off the field. He was also a one-club player who joined Fylde Rugby Club as a 17-year-old in 1969, then retiring in 1982 due to an injury. He earned 34 England caps, 21 as captain, led the side to the Grand Slam in 1980, and captained the 1980 British Lions tour to South Africa. Post-retirement, Beaumont remained a prominent figure in rugby as a broadcaster, and columnist.
As a player, he earned 34 caps for England between 1975 and 1982, serving as captain 21 times. Under his leadership, England secured their first Grand Slam in 23 years in 1980. He also captained the British & Irish Lions during their 1980 tour to South Africa. Following his retirement due to medical advice in 1982, Beaumont transitioned into rugby administration and media. He became a familiar face on the BBC quiz show “A Question of Sport,” serving as a team captain for 14 years. In the administrative realm, he was appointed Chairman of the Rugby Football Union (RFU) in 2012 and later became Chairman of World Rugby in 2016, a position he held until November 2024.
In December 2024, amidst internal challenges within the RFU, Beaumont was appointed as the interim Chairman following the resignation of Tom Ilube. This move was seen as an effort to restore stability and unity within the organisation. Throughout his career, Sir Bill Beaumont has been recognised for his services to rugby and charity. He was appointed Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in 2008, knighted in 2019, and elevated to Knight Grand Cross of the Order of the British Empire (GBE) in the 2024 New Year Honours.
Rugby Union Five Nations International match at Twickenham. England 23 v Scotland 17. Action during the match involving England’s Bill Beaumont from 21 February 1981.
Bill Beaumont in 2016
