Maro Itoje has reinforced his commitment to the enduring legacy of the British & Irish Lions, describing the 2025 tour of Australia as one of the defining moments of his rugby career. Now a three-time tourist, the England captain is relishing his leadership role in a successful campaign that has already delivered a 2-0 series victory over the Wallabies.
Itoje expressed his deep appreciation for the Lions’ tradition, calling it a light that never dims for top players. “It’s without question one of the highlights of my career,” he said. “These are memories I’ll look back on with immense fondness.” His words carry extra weight as he becomes only the sixth living person to have captained a Lions series-winning side, joining a legendary group of predecessors.
Amid talk about expanding future tours to include France, Itoje was clear in his stance. He argued against altering the traditional tour cycle of Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa, stressing the importance of history, long-haul travel, and the unique anticipation that surrounds each four-year cycle. “Part of me is keen for it to continue to rotate among the three countries it does. It wouldn’t feel the same if we just took a short-haul flight.”
With the final Test in Sydney still to play, Itoje remains focused, insisting the job is not yet complete. He brushed aside any suggestion of taking a rest, stating the team’s goal is to chase down their best performance yet. “While the first two games have been great, we haven’t put it together fully. We want to make history this weekend.”
Beyond the on-field action, Itoje praised the camaraderie forged within the squad. He highlighted new friendships with players like Jamie Osborne, Jac Morgan, and Finlay Bealham, illustrating how the Lions bring together diverse personalities and playing styles into a cohesive and spirited unit.
Despite the demands of a long season, Itoje’s energy and enthusiasm remain undimmed. For him, the Lions tour is more than a rugby series—it’s a unique celebration of unity, excellence, and tradition that continues to inspire players and fans alike.
