Sir Bill Beaumont is an influential figure in global rugby, transitioning from a celebrated England captain to a distinguished administrator, notably serving as Chairman of World Rugby. After leading England to an unexpected Grand Slam victory in 1980, Sir Bill Beaumont solidified his status as a legendary figure in rugby. He began his playing career at Fylde Rugby Club in 1969, remaining with the club until his retirement in 1982. Beaumont earned 34 caps for England, a record for a lock at the time, and captained the national team 21 times.
Maintaining his active involvement in rugby leadership, Beaumont returned as interim chairman of the RFU in December 2024. Looking ahead to 2025, his global influence will be recognized with Japan’s highest honor, The Grand Cordon of the Order of the Rising Sun, awarded for his instrumental role in the successful Rugby World Cup 2019 hosted in Japan.