England and Saracens star Maro Itoje has revealed that he’s considering a move into politics once his glittering rugby career comes to an end.
The British & Irish Lions skipper, who led the tourists to a 2–1 series win over Australia this summer, has already captained club and country and earned 93 caps for England — but he’s now thinking far beyond the pitch.
“Politics is something that is of deep interest to me”
Itoje, who holds a degree in politics from SOAS (School of Oriental and African Studies), opened up about his future ambitions on The Rest Is Politics podcast with Alastair Campbell and Rory Stewart.
“It’s something that is of deep interest to me. I have so many interests and I think I could have gone any which way but one of them was and is politics,” he said.
The 30-year-old — known as much for his eloquence off the field as his leadership on it — admitted he’s drawn to the idea of making a real impact through public service.
“I’m not putting anything off the table. The opportunity to effect real change, to put legislation in place for the betterment of society is a very attractive one, although it has its drawbacks as well.”
Not sports politics — the real thing
When asked if he’d follow in the footsteps of Seb Coe and move into sports politics, Itoje made his position clear.
“I’m actually more attracted to real politics. What I want to do is look positively forward into the future and throw all of myself into what happens next.
“That’s what I will try and do but it’s easier said than done.”
“Faith gives me hope”
A man guided by his beliefs, Itoje also spoke about the importance of faith and optimism in shaping his worldview.
“I’m a man of faith, I’m a Christian, so that always gives me hope. In the last 18 months or so I’ve become deeper and deeper in that faith.
“Despite the challenges that we face, I think this is a great country that has a lot of opportunities and it’s a place where you’d rather be if you had to roll the dice, because of the opportunity, rule of law, the economy.
“Sometimes we forget that as a nation and how powerful we are. Obviously if you compare it to 100 years ago you would say it’s dwindling but as of today it’s a nation that many other parts of the world would dream of.”
“Greatest leader of them all” – Nigel Owens ranks the best rugby captains of all-time
Renowned rugby referee Nigel Owens has revealed a surprising list of the top five captains he’s had the privilege to officiate.
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Honourable mention: Siya Kolisi
He wrote in October 2025: “Is there a greater leader and human being than this man? If he hasn’t already done so he sure will go down as the greatest leader of them all & I’ve been privileged to referee the very very best the rugby world has seen. Congratulations SA and well done all for a terrific TRC. @siyakolisi”
NIGEL OWENS: MY TOP 5 CAPTAINS I REFEREED:
#5. Chris Robshaw (England)
The flanker is a former English rugby union player who captained the national team from 2012 to 2015.
Known for his exceptional work rate and leadership skills, Robshaw was a dynamic flanker who made a significant impact on the field. He enjoyed a successful club career with Harlequins, where he played for over a decade. Robshaw’s dedication and commitment to the sport earned him numerous accolades and the respect of his peers.
Off the field, he is admired for his philanthropic efforts, using his platform to support various charitable causes.
Owens said: “Some people will be surprised at this one to start off. His misfortune was perhaps to be leading England during a difficult time, but he always gave everything for the cause, encouraging others to follow suit, and he was a nice guy off the pitch.”
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