Richie McCaw ONZ is regarded by players as one of the greatest leaders the game has known. Respected for his competitiveness, humility, and relentless standards, Richie set the benchmark for what it meant to prepare, perform, and lead in professional rugby.
Across a 14-year professional career, Richie led Canterbury, the Crusaders, and the All Blacks through sustained periods of success. As All Blacks captain, he won back-to-back Rugby World Cups in 2011 and 2015, along with multiple Bledisloe Cups, Tri Nations and Rugby Championship titles. He finished his career as the most capped All Black of all time, playing 148 Tests and captaining the team on a record 111 occasions.
What set Richie apart in team environments was not just his achievements, but the way he led. He was known for demanding the best of himself first, backing his teammates, and creating a culture built on trust, accountability, and pride in the jersey. His influence was felt every day, not just on match day, and he remains a reference point for leadership within the game.
Off the field, Richie has consistently used his platform to support others. He has been heavily involved in fundraising efforts for the Christchurch rebuild, Leukaemia and Blood Cancer New Zealand, and as Patron of the CatWalk Spinal Cord Injury Trust. In 2009, alongside Dan Carter and Ali Williams, he co-founded iSPORT, an organisation focused on helping young New Zealanders and community sports groups access the resources they need to participate and succeed in sport, including partnerships supporting young disabled athletes.
Since retiring, Richie has pursued his passion for aviation and adventure racing, while continuing to contribute to the wider sporting community. In recognition of his service to rugby and New Zealand, he was appointed to the Order of New Zealand in 2016, the country’s highest honour.
Respected by generations of players, Richie remains a trusted voice in the game and a strong advocate for leadership, values, and giving back beyond the field.
