Sir Clive Woodward calls for action from World Rugby after Lewis Moody diagnosis

, is set for early December — a gruelling effort that will see him run seven ultra-marathons in seven days across seven cities or regions.

A link to donate to the Lewis Moody Fundraising Appeal can be found here.

His plea follows Lewis Moody’s devastating diagnosis of motor neurone disease, a moment that has shaken the sport to its core. This is no longer a matter of debate. It is a matter of truth.

Woodward, , called for greater action to be taken and urged the game to unite to provide definitive answers.

“The news Lewis has revealed must act as a defining moment for the game,” Woodward writes. “There has to be far greater action taken now.

“For the good of rugby as a whole, everyone who has a passion for it needs to know if taking head knocks on the field can lead to brain illnesses.

“We still don’t know the answer. If it is proved that the answer is yes, then that will be a mighty challenging position for the sport and its future.

“But at least then there will be clarity and we can proceed from there by implementing more ways to make the game even safer.

“Rugby needs a united voice on this issue, one man or woman who is an expert in their medical field and who should be charged solely with identifying whether or not suffering head injuries on the field can lead to brain diseases.

"No words or best wishes can help us get to that scenario. Over to you World Rugby, and all the game’s governing bodies.”

Since the announcement, support has poured in from across the sport.

Sinfield — now part of the England rugby union coaching team — spoke to the PA news agency, saying: “I’m obviously very saddened by the news. I’d like to wish Lewis, and all his family and friends, the very best.

“I’ll support in any way I can. We have to keep fighting MND together.”

He was awarded a CBE last year for his work supporting the MND community.

Sinfield’s next fundraising mission, 7 in 7: Together

"He is the most wonderful human that we love to his very core," Greenwood told BBC Radio 5 Live.

"It is just tragic news, because he is one of the great guys. And I know there is no order to this stuff - how you leave this planet - but you root for the good guys.

"There is not a nasty bone in his body, he is the most optimistic human you can hope to find... and then he had an ability on the pitch to just turn a switch and be the most ferocious competitor.

"He will fight this with every ounce of his strength."

Moody's former club, Leicester Tigers, where he made 223 appearances and won multiple titles, led tributes to the man who became synonymous with relentless energy and fearless play.

“Everyone at Leicester Tigers is deeply saddened to learn that one of our greatest players, Lewis Moody, has announced that he has been diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease (MND). Our heartfelt support goes out to Lewis, his wife Annie and their family.”

Club Chief Executive Andrea Pinchen reflected on Moody's legacy beyond the silverware:

“The figures, trophies and awards tell you what an incredible player Lewis was, but that is only half the story. As an individual, his commitment to his club along with his warmth and passion shone through, which endeared him to teammates, staff and supporters alike. Always looking to help others, Lewis together with Annie have worked tirelessly through the Lewis Moody Foundation, supporting research into brain tumours and helping affected families.”

England Rugby, for whom Moody earned 71 caps, also voiced their support:

“Everyone at England Rugby is saddened to learn that former captain Lewis Moody has been diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease.

All of our thoughts are with Lewis, his family and friends as they come to terms with this diagnosis. We will be offering both practical and emotional support, and know the entire rugby community will stand with them at this incredibly difficult time.”

RFU CEO Bill Sweeney also put out a message via the England Rugby channels.

Across social media, supporters, former players, and fans alike have expressed admiration and solidarity for Moody, whose bravery in the face of the disease has already inspired many.

On Instagram, former Wales and British and Irish Lions scrum-half Rhys Webb said of the news: "Absolute warrior and legend of the game. With you all the way."

Rugby fan @halcruttenden posted on X:“One of the nicest men in rugby is facing one of the toughest struggles. He has done amazing charity work in the battle against brain tumours and now he will be looking to raise awareness about his own battle against MND. However he does this, please support him.”

The MND Association also acknowledged Moody’s diagnosis, while underlining the wider impact of the disease: “We’re sorry to hear that former @EnglandRugby and @LeicesterTigers rugby player, Lewis Moody, has been diagnosed with motor neurone disease. He’s one of six people who will receive this news today – the @mndassoc is here to support Lewis, his family and all affected by #MND.”

X user @RuckedOver summed up what many in the community are feeling: “My favourite player to watch, growing up. I sat in tears watching his interview, yet still in awe at the strength & bravery of Lewis & his wife Annie. He threw himself into everything in his playing career & he’ll inspire others by doing the same here. We’re with you, Mad Dog.”

Known as "Mad Dog" for his fearless style on the pitch, Lewis Moody's fight now takes a different form. The same qualities that made him a fan favourite—resilience, grit, and heart—will serve him as he faces this deeply personal battle.

In a sport built on camaraderie and courage, Moody can be sure that he is not alone. From teammates and rivals to fans and charities, the entire rugby world is firmly in his corner.