We're thinking of Lewis Moody after announcement of MND diagnosis

Former England rugby captain Lewis Moody has revealed his motor neurone disease diagnosis

The 47-year-old World Cup winner says he is focusing on his family and wellbeing after learning of the incurable condition

Former England captain Lewis Moody has revealed he has been diagnosed with motor neurone disease and says he is not yet ready to confront the full reality of the muscle-wasting condition that claimed the lives of fellow rugby players Doddie Weir and Rob Burrow.

The 47-year-old, who was part of England’s 2003 Rugby World Cup-winning squad and lifted multiple English and European titles with Leicester Tigers, spoke to BBC Breakfast two weeks after receiving the diagnosis.

Moody, who appeared alongside his wife Annie, said he currently feels “at ease” and is focusing on his immediate wellbeing, his family and making practical preparations for the future.

He first sought medical advice after noticing weakness in his shoulder while training in the gym. When physiotherapy failed to help, scans revealed damage to nerves in his brain and spinal cord caused by MND.

So sad to read this @LewisMoody7 - sending love to you & your family. MND is such a tough diagnosis to get, as I know all too well from my Dad who had the disease. But there’s a strong community of MND warriors out there who’ll be by your side 👊🧡💙 @mndassoc https://t.co/X1k8nJJWrh

— Charlotte Hawkins (@CharlotteHawkns) October 6, 2025

The condition can progress rapidly. According to the MND Association, a third of those diagnosed die within a year and more than half within two years, as swallowing and breathing become increasingly difficult. While treatment can slow the decline, there is no cure.

The best moments of his career

He was a pivotal figure in England’s 2003 World Cup triumph and a cornerstone of the dominant Leicester Tigers side that claimed seven Premiership titles and two Heineken Cups.

Over the course of his career, he made 71 appearances for England and captained his country 12 times, including at the 2011 Rugby World Cup.

He also represented the British and Irish Lions during their 2005 tour, a defining moment in his international career.