Maro Itoje is far more than a rugby player. He is a symbol of excellence, resilience, and leadership—both on and off the field. Over the past decade, the towering lock forward has cemented his place not just in England’s national team, but also in the pantheon of global rugby icons. As captain of the British and Irish Lions in 2025 and a central figure in England’s national side, Itoje is a name synonymous with strength, intellect, and unrelenting ambition. But beyond his athletic feats, he’s also an advocate for education, an art collector, and a proud ambassador for African heritage.
Early Life and Education
Oghenemaro Miles Itoje was born on 28 October 1994 in Camden, North London, to Nigerian parents. From a young age, his life was defined by discipline, ambition, and excellence. Itoje attended St George’s School in Harpenden before moving on to the prestigious Harrow School, where he was first introduced to rugby at the age of 11.
Despite his early sporting promise, education remained a top priority. He went on to study politics at the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS), University of London, and later completed a master’s degree in business. This strong academic background laid the foundation for his articulate presence in media and advocacy circles, distinguishing him from many of his contemporaries.
Rise to Rugby Stardom
Itoje’s professional career began when he joined the Saracens academy in 2012. By 2013, he had made his senior debut for the club, and it wasn’t long before he started turning heads. Known for his towering height of 6 ft 5 in and supreme athleticism, he quickly became a core component of Saracens’ forward pack.
Over the years, Itoje played a pivotal role in Saracens’ domestic and European success. With the club, he has won multiple Premiership titles and European Champions Cups, earning a reputation for his work rate, discipline, and leadership on the pitch. His performances were often characterised by crucial turnovers, dominant line-out work, and a calm yet commanding presence.
International Breakthrough with England
Itoje earned his first senior England cap during the 2016 Six Nations Championship under then-head coach Eddie Jones. England went on to win the Grand Slam that year, with Itoje proving instrumental in the campaign. His performances were met with widespread praise, as he combined raw physicality with strategic intelligence well beyond his years.
Since then, Itoje has been a fixture in the England setup, representing his country in the 2019 Rugby World Cup in Japan, where England finished as runners-up after a spirited run to the final. Throughout the tournament, Itoje’s defensive contributions and relentless energy were widely recognised.
British and Irish Lions: Making History
One of the highest honours in rugby is selection for the British and Irish Lions, a composite team of the best players from England, Scotland, Wales, and Ireland. Itoje was selected for the 2017 tour to New Zealand and again for the 2021 tour of South Africa. In both campaigns, he emerged as one of the standout performers, particularly in the 2017 drawn series against the All Blacks.
In 2025, history was made when Itoje was named captain of the British and Irish Lions for the tour of Australia. He became the first Black player to captain the Lions in over two decades, a moment of immense pride for both Itoje and the wider rugby community. His appointment was not just a testament to his skills as a player but also to his maturity, charisma, and leadership capabilities.
Style of Play and Strengths
Maro Itoje is renowned for his versatility and rugby intelligence. Although primarily a lock, he is equally comfortable playing as a blindside flanker, which provides tactical flexibility to any team he is part of.
Some of his key strengths include:
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Exceptional line-out jumping and calling.
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Ball-carrying power, breaking through defensive lines with regularity.
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Impressive turnover rate, often stealing possession in crucial moments.
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High tackle completion rate and breakdown efficiency.
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On-field communication and leadership.
Itoje’s ability to read the game and position himself perfectly has often led pundits and former players to describe him as a “coach’s dream.” He rarely makes unforced errors and leads by example with consistent performances.
Off the Field: Advocacy and Art
While many athletes limit their public lives to sport, Itoje is refreshingly different. He is vocal about the importance of education and equal opportunities. He launched the Pearl Fund to support educational initiatives in Nigeria, Ghana, and the UK, demonstrating his commitment to uplifting communities through learning.
Moreover, Itoje is a serious patron of the arts. He co-founded the Akoje Gallery in London, a platform dedicated to showcasing African and Caribbean art. His personal collection includes dozens of works, and he has become an influential voice in promoting cultural appreciation and representation within elite circles.
Itoje’s blend of athletic prowess and intellectual curiosity makes him a unique figure not only in sport but also in British cultural life. He represents a new generation of athlete—one that transcends traditional boundaries and uses their platform for broader social good.
Championing Diversity and Inclusion
As a high-profile Black athlete in a traditionally white-dominated sport, Itoje has not shied away from speaking on issues of race and inclusion. He has consistently advocated for greater representation and opportunities for Black and minority ethnic individuals in rugby and beyond.
He has also spoken out about rugby’s accessibility challenges, pushing for major competitions like the Six Nations to remain on free-to-air television to ensure young, aspiring players from all backgrounds can be inspired by the game.
Itoje’s influence extends beyond the try line. He is shaping conversations that affect the future of the sport and society at large.
Personal Discipline and Philosophy
Itoje is famously disciplined in his personal and professional life. He keeps a meticulous schedule, prioritising recovery, mental wellness, and continuous learning. He often quotes historical figures and enjoys reading literature ranging from African history to political theory.
This intellectual curiosity adds depth to his approach on the pitch. He has been known to analyse opposition teams in great detail, often preparing weeks in advance to understand their tactics and tendencies.
Such preparation, combined with his natural talent and relentless work ethic, explains his consistency at the highest levels of the game.
The Road Ahead
As of 2025, Itoje stands at a unique crossroads. He has already achieved more than most players do in a lifetime, yet he remains hungry for more. With the British and Irish Lions tour of Australia underway, his leadership is expected to be a defining factor in the squad’s success.
Beyond rugby, Itoje is poised to continue his journey as a thought leader, philanthropist, and cultural figure. Whether it’s through expanding the reach of his gallery, launching educational initiatives, or simply continuing to inspire on the field, his legacy is one that is still being written.
Conclusion
Maro Itoje is not just one of the finest rugby players England has ever produced—he is a multidimensional figure shaping the future of sport, culture, and society. From dominating scrums to curating art, from studying politics to leading the Lions, his journey is one of constant evolution and excellence.
In an age where athletes are increasingly expected to be more than their profession, Itoje exceeds expectations. He embodies intellect, leadership, cultural pride, and relentless ambition. As he continues to rise, so too does his impact—on rugby, on Britain, and on a global audience hungry for role models who inspire both by action and integrity.
