The Rugby World Cup is the highest achievement in international rugby, and winning the Webb-Ellis Cup is the pinnacle for any player. These captains are all game legends and have led their teams to victory through some of the most iconic moments in Rugby World Cup history.
This article will examine all Rugby World Cup winning captains and explore their contributions to the game.
Rugby World Cup Winning Captains
Only eight men have ever had the honor of lifting the Webb Ellis Cup as Rugby World Cup winning captains. These men have led their teams to the sport’s peak and etched their names into rugby history.
| Year | Captain | Country |
| 2023 | Siya Kolisi | South Africa |
| 2019 | Siya Kolisi | South Africa |
| 2011, 2015 | Richie McCaw | New Zealand |
| 2007 | John Smit | South Africa |
| 2003 | Martin Johnson | England |
| 1999 | John Eales | Australia |
| 1995 | Francois Pienaar | South Africa |
| 1991 | Nick Farr-Jones | Australia |
| 1987 | David Kirk | New Zealand |
Siya Kolisi | 2023
Siya Kolisi, the captain of the South African Springboks, lifted the Webb Ellis Cup as the winning captain of the Rugby World Cup 2023. South Africa defeated New Zealand 12-11 in a closely contested final match held at the Stade de France in Saint-Denis, France.
Siya Kolisi | 2019
In 2019, Siya Kolisi was the skipper of the South African team that won the RWC. He was the first black captain of the Springboks, and his victory was a significant moment for South Africa.
Richie McCaw | 2011 & 2015
Richie McCaw was the captain of the New Zealand team that won the Rugby World Cup in 2011 and 2015. He is the only player to have headed a team to two Rugby World Cup triumphs. He is one of the greatest rugby players of all time.
John Smit | 2007
In 2007, under John Smit’s captaincy, the South African team secured victory in the Rugby World Cup. Smit led the Springboks to a win over England in the final match by doing a try in the second half. He’s the only South African player to win the Webb-Ellis Cup twice.
Martin Johnson | 2003
Martin Johnson was the skipper of the English team that won the RWC in 2003. Johnson led England to a victory over Australia in the final game, scoring a try in extra time to secure the win. He is the only Englishman to have lifted the Webb Ellis Cup.
John Eales | 1999
In the 1999 World Cup, John Eales was the skipper of the Australian team. Eales led the Wallabies to a victory over France in the final, scoring a try & a penalty. He is the only player who captained Australia to two RWC wins.
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Francois Pienaar | 1995
Francois Pienaar was the captain of the South African team that won the 1995 RWC. Pienaar was known for his toughness, leadership, and sportsmanship. South African President Nelson Mandela presented him with the Webb-Ellis Cup.
Nick Farr-Jones | 1991
In 1991, Nick Farr-Jones was the captain of the Australian team that won the Rugby World Cup. He was a fly-half known for his attacking flair and ability to handle the tough game. Farr-Jones led his team to a thrilling victory over England in the final, scoring a try and three penalties.
David Kirk | 1987
In 1987, David Kirk was the All Blacks captain in the first Rugby World Cup. He was a scrum-half known for his leadership, intelligence, and passing skills. Kirk was vital to the All Blacks’ success, scoring five tries in the tournament, including one in the final against France.
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