Matt Dawson MBE
Matt Dawson delivers energetic, humorous and inspiring talks shaped
by rugby triumphs, TV stardom and culinary creativity.
Why you should book Matt Dawson for your next event
- Gain insights from a World Cup winner who understands leadership, teamwork and how to perform under pressure.
- Experience a lively, humorous speaker who blends sporting stories, TV moments and real lessons for any audience.
- Book a seasoned media personality who adapts every talk to your event and engages from start to finish.
Non-binding request for Matt Dawson
Rugby champion turned TV favourite, storyteller & charismatic speaker
Matt Dawson brings the energy of elite sport, the warmth of prime-time TV and the curiosity of a dedicated foodie to every stage. Known for contributing to England’s 2003 Rugby World Cup victory and later becoming the longest-serving Team Captain on BBC1’s A Question of Sport, he has built a career defined by versatility and charisma. As a speaker he is lively, sharp and relatable, weaving leadership lessons, behind-the-scenes stories and quick humour into talks that resonate with business audiences, sports fans and corporate events of all kinds.
About Matt Dawson
Matt Dawson’s journey stretches from international rugby success to national television prominence. As a key contributor to England’s 2003 Rugby World Cup victory, he earned a reputation for tactical intelligence, leadership and resilience. These qualities later shaped his transition into broadcasting, culinary projects and a highly successful speaking career. Known for his ability to bring audiences inside the pressure, camaraderie and strategy of elite sport, Matt offers a rare mix of insight and entertainment.
Book Matt Dawson for your event
Booking Matt means bringing in a speaker who can adapt to any brief. Event organisers consistently praise his ability to tailor presentations precisely to their audience. His style is vibrant, humorous and grounded in real experience. From the infamous 1998 “Tour from Hell” to captaining England to the Six Nations title in 2000, Matt shares stories that reveal the importance of leadership during adversity and the impact of collective effort when stakes are high. His understanding of teamwork is shaped not only by rugby but also by years of working in high-profile TV environments.
Beyond the pitch
Matt’s public profile grew further when he became the longest-running Team Captain on BBC1’s A Question of Sport. Week after week, he connected with millions of viewers through sharp banter, sporting knowledge and a natural on-screen presence. His media experience spans live hosting, commentary and radio presenting, including regular guest appearances and coverage on BBC Radio Five Live. In 2012 he contributed to BBC Sport’s Six Nations coverage and presented popular online content such as the “Dawson Debates”. That same year he joined the BBC Olympic presenting team, covering the cycling events from the velodrome for Radio Five Live.
Culinary ventures
Matt’s passion for food has shaped a strong culinary identity. After finishing as runner-up on Strictly Come Dancing, he went on to win Celebrity Masterchef in 2006. His love of cooking led to programmes such as Matt and Allegra’s Big Farm for UKTV’s Good Food channel, Monster Munchies, Mitch and Matt’s Big Fish, and Tesco’s Real Food Family Cook Off for Five. He also created food and wine pairing content in collaboration with Bordeaux Wines, featured in national publications. As a brand ambassador for Young’s Seafood and in partnership with Tulip, he contributed ideas that helped develop fuller-flavoured sausages later stocked in Tesco and Sainsbury’s.
Speaking themes & impact
As an after-dinner and business speaker, Matt is charismatic, engaging and unmistakably funny. He blends sporting anecdotes with lessons in:
- Leadership through uncertainty.
- Performing under pressure.
- Adapting to new environments.
- Teamwork and communication.
- Personal resilience and reinvention
Audiences enjoy his ability to move seamlessly between humour and meaningful insight. Whether he is recounting World Cup preparations, sharing experiences from A Question of Sport, or discussing the drive required to compete in Strictly Come Dancing, he brings authenticity and perspective to every event.
Matt Dawson remains a prominent media figure, a trusted voice in sport, and a speaker who leaves audiences entertained, inspired and energised. He is an ideal choice for conferences, corporate gatherings, awards nights and events seeking a mix of humour, substance and memorable storytelling.
Keynotes
Keynote by Matt Dawson :
Inspiring Keynote Speaker on Leadership, Teamwork & High Performance
Matt Dawson is a sought-after motivational and business speaker who blends lessons from elite sport, broadcasting and business to deliver engaging, insightful and energising keynotes.
Drawing on his World Cup–winning rugby career and his work across television and food ventures, he brings audiences practical strategies and memorable stories that resonate across industries.
His keynotes explore themes including:
- Staff Engagement – Building a motivated, connected and purpose-driven workforce.
- Leadership Culture – Creating environments where strong leadership behaviours inspire high performance.
- Teamwork – Understanding roles, communication and cohesion through the lens of world-class teams.
- Winning Mentality – Developing resilience, focus and the mindset required to achieve consistent success.
Matt Dawson is also a charismatic and humorous after-dinner speaker, known for his lively storytelling and sharp wit. Whether discussing life at the top of international rugby or sharing anecdotes from his media and culinary adventures, he captivates audiences and leaves them entertained, motivated and inspired.
