Maro Itoje confirms shock move ahead of 2025 British & Irish Lions tour
Yesterday at 03:07 AM
British and Irish Lions hopeful Maro Itoje has made a bold career move, swapping Roc Nation Sports for Ten Toes.
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The England lock, who made headlines in 2020 by joining Jay-Z's sports management agency after leaving Stellar Group, has now switched teams again as the 2025 Lions tour looms.
Saracens star secures long-term future
Maro Itoje, 30, signed a new long-term deal with Saracens in January 2024, alongside an upgraded England EPS contract. Now, with the Lions tour to Australia just months away, the lock's decision to change agency marks another step in his off-field evolution.
The Ten Toes statement
"Ten Toes is pleased to welcome Saracens and England rugby union star, philanthropist and gallerist Maro Itoje to its talent roster. Responsible for building Itoje's personal brand off the pitch, Ten Toes will begin by building the strategic foundations of success before leading all content and exclusive commercial partnership delivery."
More than a rugby player
Ten Toes' founder and CEO, Ben Weisfeld, shared his excitement: "We couldn't be more excited. Maro is more than just a rugby player. He has so many strings to his bow, and we can't wait to build on the foundations he has already built and continue to grow his profile with fans and new partners alike."
Itoje's impressive off-field resume
Known for his leadership on the pitch, Itoje's accolades extend far beyond rugby. The Akoje Gallery, which he founded, promotes the work of African, Caribbean, and diaspora artists. Alongside Khalil Akar, Itoje also established the Akoje Residency, fostering cross-cultural engagement and creativity.
His philanthropic efforts don't stop there. The Pearl Fund, an initiative Itoje launched, has generated multi-million-pound investments to support Nigerian children's education, underscoring his commitment to cultural and educational advancement.
A partnership for the future
Maro Itoje himself is optimistic about the collaboration: "I'm very excited to partner with Ten Toes on this next chapter. Ben and the team's work has been very impressive, and I like the way they go about their business. I'm looking forward to working alongside them to help achieve my goals and aspirations."
Alun Wyn Jones and Owen Farrell included on list of worst British & Irish Lions
The British & Irish Lions is the pinnacle of a player’s career – a chance to prove yourself against the very best. But not everyone rises to the occasion.
While some have cemented their legacies in red jerseys, others have left fans wondering how they even made the squad.
From unfortunate injuries to underwhelming performances, we take a look at some of the worst Lions players across different tours, with big names like Owen Farrell and Alun Wyn Jones making the cut.
2021 tour: Owen Farrell – The forgotten playmaker
Owen Farrell, one of the most recognisable and influential players in modern rugby, endured a tour to forget in South Africa. Despite his vast experience and reputation as a leader, Farrell was named by SA Rugby Mag as the worst-performing Lion on the tour.
Initially expected to play a key role, he started three games and featured off the bench in the first two Tests.
However, as the series decider loomed, head coach Warren Gatland made a brutal call – dropping Farrell from the matchday 23 entirely. It was a stark fall from grace for a player who was once considered indispensable.
WIN A TRIP TO THE 2025 LIONS:
THE PACKAGE INCLUDES
- 2 x Return flight tickets from the UK to Australia
- 2 x Tickets to watch the 2nd Test in Melbourne
- 2 x Tickets to watch the 3rd Test in Sydney
- 4 x Night's accommodation in Melbourne with bed & breakfast (24-27 July)
- 7 x Night's accommodation in Sydney with bed & breakfast (28 July-3 Aug)
- 2 x Flight tickets Melbourne to Sydney including airport hotel group transfers
- 2 x Tickets to watch a private function with Lions legends
- Additional events to be announced
The winner will be part of the Lions supporters group with tour representatives on hand to oversee everything.
CONTINUES ON PAGE TWO
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