Captain. Leader. Advocate.
MARO ITOJE
Maro Itoje is one of the most recognisable and respected athletes in world rugby.
As captain of England, the British & Irish Lions and Saracens, he brings excellence, discipline and presence to everything he does.
This is the official home of Maro Itoje. Explore his story, his interests, and his impact.
Born in London to Nigerian parents, Maro has become a modern icon in international rugby and transcended his field with influence far beyond the pitch.
He is passionate about education, equality, business, art and culture. A published writer and advocate for progress, he brings thoughtfulness and clarity to everything he supports.
Whether lifting trophies or championing change, Maro remains committed to excellence and legacy.
Maro Itoje IS A LEADER defined BY STRENGTH through PURPOSE
ABOUT
MARO
Career
Maro Itoje’s rugby journey is one of sustained excellence, elite performance and growing leadership.
He has won multiple Premiership and European titles with Saracens, earned over 70 caps for England, and been selected for two British & Irish Lions tours. Today, as captain of ALL teams, he leads from the front with consistency, control and charisma.
Key Highlights:
Saracens, England and British & Irish Lions captain
Approaching 100 international caps
Multiple-time Premiership and European Champion with Saracens
Named European Player of the Year
A fixture in the Six Nations Team of the Tournament
His impact is felt in every match, every camp and every dressing room he leads
INTeREsts
While known globally for rugby, Maro Itoje’s perspective reaches far wider.
Education & Equality
Maro uses his platform to champion access and opportunity. From founding initiatives to speaking at global forums, he’s an active voice for long-term social progress.
Art & Culture
Maro is deeply engaged in the arts, particularly championing artistic voices from the African and Caribbean diasporas. He supports and collaborates with insititutions to spotlight stories that matter.
He is a member of the Frieze91 Committee, an ambassador for the Young V&A and has curated for Sotheby’s. As of 2023, he launched his own gallery Akoje Gallery which roams globally to provide 360 exposure for underrepresented African artists.
In January 2024, he founded the Akoje Residency, which aims to become the largest art residency in the world. The first iteration is in partnership with the King’s Foundation at Dumfries House.
TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT HIS AKOJE GALLERY VISIT HERE
Writing & Expression
Maro’s writing has been published in major titles, addressing leadership, identity and the experience of Black British athletes. His voice carries power both on and off the field.
MARO Itoje’s PEAL FUND
Launched in 2023, the fund provides ‘cradle to college’ education for children in one of Lagos’ most deprived areas, with a focus on orphaned and fatherless children. The Pearl Fund adopts a ‘breadth not depth’ approach, funding not only the school fees of these children to attend Platform College, but extracurricular activities, uniforms, nutrition, clean water and financial support for their families.
Maro truly believes in the holistic, long-term commitment to these children’s education and embedding them in an environment to support their learning – and break the cycle of poverty through education.
This year, The Pearl Fund will expand into the UK.
Please visit Maro Itoje’s Pearl Fund website by clicking the button beow.
Captain. Leader. Advocate
Captain. Leader. Advocate
MARO’S BRAND PARTNERS
Maro has partnered with some of the world’s most respected brands, chosen for their values, ambition and cultural relevance.
As a captain at the highest level, he brings professionalism, integrity and substance to every collaboration.
For brands, Maro represents:
Elite performance and global reach
Leadership with credibility
Cultural connection and purpose
His past partnerships include brands such as Ralph Lauren, Vitality, Beats by Dre, and Under Armour.
