Former England captain Lewis Moody announces ALS diagnosis
Former England rugby captain Lewis Moody has revealed that he has been diagnosed with motor neurone disease (ALS). The 47-year-old, who helped England secure the 2003 Rugby World Cup and enjoyed a storied club career with Leicester Tigers, disclosed the news on X, emphasizing that he plans to face the challenge with positivity and resilience.
A celebrated career remembered as much for leadership as for skill
Moody earned 71 caps for England and captained the national team in the 2010 Six Nations. He was also a key figure for the British and Irish Lions, touring with distinction and lifting multiple titles with Leicester Tigers, including two European Cups. His decisive lineout in the 2003 World Cup semifinal and the pressure he applied in the final helped pave the way for Jonny Wilkinson’s iconic drop goal in the rain-soaked final in Australia.
The message Moody shared and his outlook
In a candid post, Moody said he was “sharing some tough news” and that the diagnosis had been “incredibly hard to process and a huge shock.” Yet he stressed that he feels “fit and well in myself” and remains focused on staying positive, living life, and adapting to the changes MND will bring. He underscored the importance of support from family, friends, and medical professionals while acknowledging the ongoing journey ahead.
Giving back through sport: The Lewis Moody Foundation
Since retiring from rugby, Moody and his wife Annie have devoted much of their time to fundraising for The Lewis Moody Foundation, supporting those affected by brain tumours. He indicated that he would like to extend fundraising efforts to incorporate initiatives closer to his current situation, inviting support from the rugby community and beyond as he charts a new path of contribution while navigating MND.
Reaction from the rugby world and a call for continued research
The rugby family has voiced its support. RFU chief executive Bill Sweeney paid tribute to Moody’s brilliance on the field and expressed condolences, while Leicester Tigers highlighted Moody’s warmth and commitment both during and after his playing days. Former England teammate Will Greenwood spoke warmly of Moody, calling him an “epic human being” and stressing the need for ongoing research into MND to better understand potential links to contact sports and other factors.
What is motor neurone disease?
MND, or ALS, involves motor neurones gradually failing to communicate with muscles. This leads to weakness, stiffness, and loss of function that can affect walking, speaking, eating, drinking, and breathing. There is currently no cure, and while the disease progresses, symptoms can be managed with care and support. In the UK, up to 5,000 adults live with MND at any time, with lifetime risk estimated at about 1 in 300.
Looking ahead with courage
Moody’s statement closes with a reminder of his enduring spirit: to embrace life, pursue opportunities, and continue to support others facing similar challenges. He asks for privacy as he and his family navigate this new reality, while promising to share updates as plans develop. The rugby community — and sport more broadly — stands with him as he continues his important work both on and off the field.
