In the world of rugby, there are few experiences more surreal than being part of the British and Irish Lions.
For Maro Itoje and his teammates, Saturday’s final Test against Australia isn’t just another match — it’s the end of something fleeting, powerful, and unforgettable.
And for Itoje, the message is clear: make it count before it’s gone.
A Moment That Won’t Come Again
As captain, Itoje knows this kind of tour comes around once in a blue moon.
It’s not just about playing the Wallabies — it’s about seizing a once-in-four-years shot at making history.
After all, the next tour isn’t promised, and not every great player gets the chance to wear the Lions jersey twice.
In his own words, “It’s rare. If you miss one, you may never get another.” That sense of urgency is what fuels the fire.
Itoje wants his squad to give everything, body and soul, to leave their mark with a perfect record — nine wins from nine and a 3-0 sweep over Australia.
From Rivals to Brothers in Arms
This team is built from four nations — England, Ireland, Scotland, and Wales — who usually spend their time knocking lumps out of each other.
But on tour, they become one. And that’s part of what makes the Lions so unique.
You take four playing styles, four cultures, and somehow, in six intense weeks, you turn them into a united force.
“It shouldn’t really work,” Itoje admits. “But it does.”
And the magic comes from the bonds they build — the trust, the mutual respect, and the common goal.
Ego Off, Unity On
A big part of this tour has been about letting go of personal pride.
Itoje reminded the squad early on that everyone here is used to being “the man” in their own setup. But in this team, you check your ego at the door.
You play not for yourself, but for the group — for something bigger.
That understanding helped shape Itoje’s leadership style.
He’s adjusted how he motivates this ultra-elite squad, recognizing he’s not talking to rookies.
“You don’t lead the same way you would with a younger team,” he explained. “Here, it’s a group of the best.”
Standing Where Legends Once Stood
On Saturday, Itoje will lift a trophy in the same stadium where England legend Martin Johnson hoisted the World Cup back in 2003.
It’s not lost on him — the echoes of greatness, the parallels to his own career, the legacy he’s building.
Johnson was the Lions captain in 1997, a European club champion, a Grand Slam winner, and a World Cup hero.
Itoje, too, has ticked those boxes with Saracens and England.
Now, with this tour win, he fills another space in what’s already an incredible rugby résumé.
The Legacy of a Winning Lion
For Itoje, being a Lion is an honour — but winning as one is a legacy.
“You speak to the guys from 2013, from 1997 — they have special memories,” he said. “Everyone wants to be a winning Lion.”
And now, he joins that elite group, having played his part in one of the most dominant tours in Lions history.
His influence, both on and off the field, has already made an impression.
After last weekend’s narrow 29-26 win in Melbourne, he led chants, high-fived fans, and showed exactly why he’s become the face of the squad.
Future Plans and Bigger Ambitions
So, what’s next for the towering lock forward? More rugby, of course — but maybe even more.
He’s already spoken confidently and eloquently in front of the Prime Minister.
He’s even got ties with political leaders, like Foreign Secretary David Lammy, who reached out after the Melbourne win.
Some even half-joke that Itoje could one day be Prime Minister. And honestly? It’s not that far-fetched.
With his presence, poise, and intellect, the man commands a room.
But First, Finish the Job
That’s all for the future. For now, Itoje is laser-focused on one last task — beat Australia one more time.
Secure the sweep. Cement the legacy. Then, when the dust settles, the 2025 Lions will go their separate ways — proud, remembered, and part of history.
As Itoje puts it: “It’s our moment. Let’s make sure we take it.”