Latest news with #CardiffRugby
Wales Online
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Wales Online
Sam Warburton's new life after shock announcement and final act that changed everything
Sam Warburton's new life after shock announcement and final act that changed everything The Lions cohort of 2025 is embarking on their latest journey, but Warburton is among the pantheon of greats for the touring team Sam Warburton with his wife, Rachel, and three kids; Anna, Max and Lily (Image: Instagram/Sam Warburton ) It seems almost inconceivable it has been seven years this week since Sam Warburton stunned the rugby world when, at just 29, he announced his retirement from the sport. The Welsh rugby great left an indelible mark on the game for his achievements in the red of both Wales and the Lions. He has since carved out a fine career for himself following retirement and is renowned as one of the finest rugby pundits on our TV screens. When this summer's Lions kicks off on Friday night in Dublin, for the warm-up match against Argentina, he will be behind the microphone, providing his typically insightful, expert analysis. Sign up to Inside Welsh rugby on Substack to get exclusive news stories and insight from behind the scenes in Welsh rugby. The former Wales and Lions captain had endured a career plagued by injuries and ultimately made the decision to walk away a year after leading the Lions to a memorable drawn series against New Zealand. He had taken time out from the sport after that tour and never actually played again. During a distinguished playing career, Warburton earned 74 Wales caps — 49 of them as captain — and won two Six Nations titles, including a Grand Slam. He also led the Lions in two unbeaten Test series and made 106 appearances for Cardiff, helping the Arms Park side lift the Amlin Challenge Cup in 2010. Sam Warburton's new career Seven years on, Warburton has carved out a successful second act as a respected pundit. He is a lead analyst for BBC's coverage of the Six Nations and a familiar voice on the Rugby Union Weekly podcast. His work also includes media columns with The Times and his own podcast, Captains, while he is also a regular fixture on TNT Sport's Premiership coverage. This summer, he is part of Sky Sports' Lions punditry team. Article continues below Outside of broadcasting, he runs the SW7 Academy, a fitness programme designed for athletes of all abilities. In 2023, Warburton returned to Cardiff Rugby as a board member, having previously had a brief spell in an advisory role before joining Wayne Pivac's Wales coaching team. However, with Cardiff Rugby having fallen into administration and then being bought out by the WRU, Warburton announced his resignation from the board back in April. He cited the demands of his media commitments and his staunch belief in reducing the number of regional sides in Welsh rugby as being key factors in his decision to step down from the board at Cardiff Rugby. He has rarely shied away from voicing strong and passionate opinions about the game. He recently reignited debate around relegation from the Six Nations, suggesting that the bottom-placed team should face a play-off — particularly if Wales finish with the Wooden Spoon again. He has long advocated for the inclusion of dominant Rugby Europe champions Georgia in the top tier and, of course, reducing the number of professional rugby clubs in Wales. Off the field, Warburton's life is grounded in family. He married childhood sweetheart Rachel Thomas in 2014, and the couple — who grew up on the same street in Cardiff — now have three children. 'Three little ones and a dog — we're done!' he joked after the birth of their youngest, Lily, in 2023. Looking back, Warburton has no regrets about retiring young. Speaking on a podcast with Dr Alex George, he reflected: 'Do I miss it? Absolutely not. I loved it when I did it, but the reward of a long, healthy family life outweighed the risk of continuing to play rugby.' Warburton, who was awarded an OBE in 2018, remains one of Welsh rugby's most admired figures — not just for what he achieved on the pitch, but for the clear-sighted, grounded life he's built since stepping away. The final act of a great rugby career Indeed, perhaps his final act on a rugby pitch summed him up best – and is pertinent given the Lions tour is just about to get under way in earnest once again. Warburton was at the centre of a defining moment at the end of a gruelling, nail-biting and tightly-fought contest between the Lions and New Zealand in 2017. 'In a Test career full of great moments, one in particular sticks in my mind,' said Warren Gatland, the then Lions coach, at the time. 'His captaincy in the third Test for the Lions in New Zealand, in a game finely balanced and potentially historic, was exemplary. The New Zealand media were mightily impressed by him, and rightly so.' Gatland was referring to the final stages of the decisive third Test at Eden Park, where the Lions and All Blacks were level at 15-15. In the dying minutes, referee Romain Poite appeared poised to award New Zealand a match-winning penalty after Ken Owens had picked up a knock-on from Liam Williams in an offside position. The decision to penalise Ken Owens was not upheld thanks to Sam Warburton But Warburton, demonstrating composure and awareness under extreme pressure, calmly asked the referee to review the decision for potential accidental offside. After a video review, the penalty was downgraded to a scrum — a ruling that preserved the draw and ensured the Lions shared the series with the world champions. Warburton later explained: 'It's a shot to nothing at that point. I just asked him to check for the accidental offside. The whole game [Poite] was receptive to having another look at things he might not have seen clearly at first. 'I'm glad it was a scrum instead. When you think back to the World Cup when that happened with Scotland and Australia and they kicked the penalty — the Scots were angry, and I remember thinking there has to be an alternative. In my opinion, it wasn't a penalty offence.' Article continues below That moment is widely seen as Warburton's final significant act on a rugby field — and one that encapsulated the respect he commanded from officials, team-mates and opponents alike. Gatland's decision to appoint Warburton as Wales captain at just 22 was vindicated time and again. 'Referees listened to him because they admired his decency,' Gatland said. 'He showed everyone respect, and they respected him in return.' That split-second decision in Auckland — not a crunching tackle or a game-breaking turnover — is what Gatland believes defines Warburton's legacy: calm, intelligent, and unshakably principled.
Wales Online
12-06-2025
- Sport
- Wales Online
"Cymru am Byth" - discover the beating heart of Welsh rugby as the Autumn Nations Series returns to Cardiff's Principality Stadium this November
There's nothing quite like the buzz of excitement in Cardiff on a match day. This November, the passion, pride and powerful action of the Autumn Nations Series is set to return to Principality Stadium, giving fans a chance to be part of something truly unforgettable as Wales face Argentina, Japan, New Zealand and South Africa in what promises to be a blockbuster month of international rugby. Whether you're part of a local rugby club or hold a season ticket with Cardiff Rugby, Dragons RFC, Ospreys or Scarlets, you take more than just pride in the jersey - you'll also benefit from priority access to some of the best seats in the stadium before public sale opens on Tuesday, June 17. Better still, you can also enjoy access to specially priced tickets - making it easier to bring the whole team, family or friendship group along for the ride. It's the perfect opportunity to rally your club or supporters' group and enjoy the season together. Public sale tickets for the fixtures can be found at and start from just £13.50 for under 18s and students, and £27 for adults. Tickets have been thoughtfully priced to make the Welsh rugby international experience more accessible for everyone. Attending a match in Cardiff is about so much more than just 80 minutes on the pitch. It's a memorable, whole day experience in one of Europe's most vibrant capital cities. Arrive early and soak up the incredible atmosphere as the streets of Cardiff buzz with energy and ecstatic fans. You can even enjoy live music and a tempting array of food stalls before the game, in a truly incredible venue. For fans seeking something extra special, hospitality packages are also available, including gourmet dining, executive lounges and premium seating that boasts stunning views - perfect for those on a mission to create unforgettable memories your group will cherish for a lifetime. Families are also well catered for at the venue, with family-friendly alcohol-free zones, half-price tickets for under 18s and entertainment that makes it easy for younger fans to get involved in the joy of rugby. Fixtures Sunday, November 9: Wales v Argentina Saturday, November 15: Wales v Japan Saturday, November 22: Wales v New Zealand Saturday, November 29: Wales v South Africa These aren't just international matches; they're historic battles between some of rugby's biggest teams. From the brute force of the Pumas and the electric speed of Japan to the legendary might of the All Blacks and reigning world champion Springboks, it's a true test of grit, glory and Welsh determination. Dewi Lake, who captains Wales in Japan this summer, said: "Cardiff comes alive on match day and Principality Stadium is awesome - it's been talked about and discussed for years as the best stadium on earth. "The fans create an electric atmosphere. There's no better place to play and we can't wait to experience that this November." If you're a club member or a regional season ticket holder, contact your local rugby club or pro club before June 17 to unlock your priority access and take advantage of exclusive discounted prices*. If you're not a member, pop into your local club anyway - they'll be pleased to see you regardless, and you can sign you up as you get your tickets. This November, make Principality Stadium your destination for rugby. Experience the roar, the pride and the unforgettable moments that Welsh rugby can deliver. Tickets go on general sale from Tuesday, June 17, and with fixtures this big, they're sure to sell out fast. Hospitality packages are on sale now. Home is where the Calon is. Cymru am Byth. *Priority window ends 23:59pm on June 16. To find out more, visit the Principality Stadium website.
BBC News
28-05-2025
- General
- BBC News
Cardiff prop Southworth given three-match ban
Cardiff prop Danny Southworth has been given a three-match ban for being sent off against Stormers in the final United Rugby Championship (URC) game of the 26, was shown a 29th-minute red card for a dangerous tackle by Italian referee Gianluca Gnecchi during Cardiff's 34-24 defeat in Cape Town on 16 prop will have his ban reduced by a week if he completes World Rugby's coaching intervention Cardiff's season having finished after they failed to reach the URC play-offs, the games Southworth will miss will be confirmed at a later date.
Wales Online
25-05-2025
- Sport
- Wales Online
Welsh rugby favourite finds the perfect words as he chokes back tears in emotional farewell speech
Welsh rugby favourite finds the perfect words as he chokes back tears in emotional farewell speech Rey Lee-Lo has spent a decade in the Welsh capital, playing 180 times for Cardiff Rey Lee-Lo gives an emotional farewell speech at Cardiff's awards night (Image: Cardiff Rugby ) Departing Cardiff centre Rey Lee-Lo found the perfect words as he delivered an emotional farewell speech at the Arms Park club's awards night last Wednesday. The 39-year-old was given a special recognition award by Cardiff as his departure was confirmed as part of the club's leavers list. Lee-Lo, who joined the club in 2025 from the Hurricanes, has played 180 times for Cardiff - with the Samoa international becoming an integral part of the Blue and Blacks' midfield. Throughout his decade in the Welsh capital, Lee-Lo formed a strong centre partnership with his close friend, Uilisi Halaholo. Lee-Lo was honoured with an award at Cardiff Rugby's end of season awards night last week, with former Cardiff teammate Nick Williams presenting him with the award. As he was given the award at the Tiger Yard in Cardiff Bay, those in attendance - including his Cardiff team-mates and coaches - gave the centre a standing ovation ahead of his emotional speech. "First of all, like I always do, we thank God for this lovely day and bringing us all here safe today," said Lee-Lo. Article continues below "2015 is a long time ago. This club means a lot to me. "This is my family away from my family back home. It's a pleasure and an honour to play 180 games for one club. "That's something that will stay with me forever. I just want to say thanks from the bottom of my heart. "Thanks to the club and the late Peter Thomas for everything. And all the sponsors, everyone involved, the back-room staff. "I can't say enough. I just want to say thank you for everything." Sign up to Inside Welsh rugby on Substack to get exclusive news stories and insight from behind the scenes in Welsh rugby. In his own speech, Cardiff head coach Matt Sherratt confirmed that Lee-Lo would be staying at the club in some non-playing capacity. "To stay at a club, I don't know what he's going to do yet, but we found a way of keeping him around the dressing room and helping the younger players out," said Sherratt. "Because we can't let go of people like Rey Lee-Lo." Lee-Lo had originally been set to depart in 2023, only to sign another deal with the club. Article continues below Then, last year, the club flew his family over to Wales to surprise Lee-Lo ahead of what was expected to be his final appearance - only for the evergreen Samoan to play for another year.
Wales Online
22-05-2025
- Sport
- Wales Online
Nine players leave Cardiff as legend departs and Wales international left without club
Nine players leave Cardiff as legend departs and Wales international left without club A raft of players are leaving the region this summer Lee-Lo (centre) is departing Cardiff as a club legend (Image: Chris Fairweather/Huw Evans Agency ) Cardiff Rugby have confirmed that nine players will leave the region this summer, with a club legend and a Wales international among those departing. Ahead of the region's annual awards night on Wednesday evening, tributes were paid to those that would be moving on to pastures new, with legendary centre Rey Lee-Lo honoured with a special recognition award as his departure was confirmed. The 38-year-old made 180 appearances for the region having joined a decade ago and quickly became a fan favourite at Arms Park, with Cardiff saying he will "go down as one of our greats". Wales international Regan Grace - who joined the club as injury cover on a short-term deal in January - is also moving on, having made four appearances in all competitions. The former St Helens star has previously said he would like to try and crack rugby union, but also admitted that a return to rugby league is "an option" for him this summer after an injury-hit start to his time in the 15-a-side code. Flanker Gwilym Bradley is also among those leaving after an injury-hit five years at the club, while the other departures had already been confirmed or heavily expected. Earlier on Wednesday, Gabriel Hamer-Webb was confirmed to be leaving, with the wing linked with a move to Leicester Tigers in the Gallagher Premiership following a strong finish to the season. Article continues below Hamer-Webb, who is eligible to play for either Wales and England at international level, scored seven tries in his final four matches for the region - including a Judgement Day hat-trick against the Ospreys - but missed out on a place in Matt Sherratt's Wales squad for the summer tour of Japan. The trio of Seb Davies, Thomas Young and Tinus de Beer are also among the departures, with all three players set to make the move down the M4 to join the Dragons. The signing of Young, who has four Wales caps and was a consistent performer during his time at Arms Park, has already been confirmed by the Rodney Parade outfit, with the Davies and de Beer deals set to be made official soon. Highly-rated hooker Efan Daniel is also leaving, with the Ospreys closing in on the signing of the 22-year-old, who was called up by Wales for their summer tour of Australia last year. Daniel's departure follows that of fellow front row Rhys Litterick, who signed for Edinburgh on a two-year deal last month having moved to Wales from Harlequins at the start of the last campaign. Announcing the raft of exits on Wednesday night, a post on Cardiff's official X account read: "Before the awards begin, we'd like to thank those who are leaving us, and wish them the best of luck for the future. Diolch." Article continues below While nine players are leaving, Cardiff have also brought in some new faces ahead of next season, with three players confirmed to be joining this summer. Wales back row Taine Basham has signed for Sherratt's side from the Dragons with Davies, Young and de Beer going the other way, while fellow Welsh international Ioan Lloyd has joined from the Scarlets. Looking to the future, the Arms Park side have also brought in Wales U20s lock Tom Cottle, with the teenager signing a Senior Academy contract in January.
