BBC Radio 5 Live’s award-winning Rugby Union Correspondent, Ian Robertson began his broadcasting career at the BBC in 1972, covering both Internationals & club matches.
He was educated at George Watson College in Edinburgh, Aberdeen University & Cambridge. He taught for four years at Fettes College in Edinburgh before joining the BBC in London.
Ian had a distinguished rugby career, playing for Cambridge University, Watsonians RFC, London Scottish & the Barbarians. He also won eight International Caps for Scotland between 1968 & 1970 & was Vice-Captain of the team. Unfortunately, his rugby playing career ended at the age of 27, due to a bad knee injury which occurred a few years earlier. One of the most memorable moments of his playing career was Scotland’s 1970 Calcutta Cup victory over England.
On his retirement from the pitch, Ian joined the BBC as a Rugby Commentator in 1972 & has covered almost all major matches all over the world in his time behind the microphone. He briefly left broadcasting to work as a Rugby Correspondent for the Sunday Times for three years between 1980 & 1983 but then returned to become the BBC’s Rugby Correspondent in 1983.
Ian regards Scotland’s 1984 & 1990 Grand Slams & Jonny Wilkinson’s winning drop-goal in the final of the 2003 Rugby World Cup as his best on-air moments. It was his adrenalin-fuelled commentary on the 2003 Rugby World Cup that won him a Sony Gold Award as Speech Broadcaster of the Year 2004.
In addition to his radio work, Ian has appeared regularly on television, presenting rugby previews & features.
Ian is also a prolific writer; he is the author/co-author of more than 30 books including several best-sellers – with Gareth Edwards, Bill Beaumont & Andy Irvine – & he helped to write the official biography of Richard Burton with Burton’s younger brother. The book was a best-seller in over a dozen countries.
In his spare time Ian loves playing golf & spending time with his family.
To enquire about or book Ian Robertson for your event contact Arena Entertainment. Either send an email to info@arenaentertainments.co.uk or speak to one of our booking agents on 0113-239-2222.
