Gareth Thomas

Gareth, nicknamed “Alfie”, is one of the most respected figures in world rugby, having represented Wales in both rugby union and rugby league. He was the first Welsh player to reach 100 caps and captained Wales in 2005 to its first Grand Slam win in 27 years. In 2009 he became famous for being the world’s most prominent athlete to come out as gay while still actively pursuing his career. In 2020, Gareth was awarded the CBE for services to rugby and to health. Gareth turned professional at the age of 20 in 1994, playing rugby union for his hometown, Bridgend and later for Cardiff, Celtic Warriors, Toulouse and Cardiff Blues. His international career included captaining the British and Irish Lions in 2005. After coming out in December 2009, he was voted the most influential gay person in the UK and received Stonewall’s Hero of the Year award. He is a strong supporter of the NSPCC, Childline and the Terence Higgins Trust. He has published two memoirs, Proud (2014), and Stronger (2021). In 2019 he made public that he was living with HIV. Today he is a regular analyst for ITV Sport and also raises awareness around LGBTQ+ equality, mental health and tackling stigma around HIV.