Ray French, Legendary Rugby Commentator and Dual-Code International, Dies Aged 85

Ray French, a beloved figure in rugby league and a familiar voice to generations of fans, has passed away at the age of 85, Sport360NG reports.

A dual-code international who transitioned seamlessly from the pitch to the commentary box, French became one of the most respected and recognisable figures in the sport. His commentary career with the BBC spanned more than four decades, including a remarkable run covering every Challenge Cup final on television from 1982 to 2008.

Before his time behind the microphone, French enjoyed a distinguished playing career. He earned four caps for England in rugby union in 1961 as a second-row forward before switching to rugby league later that year. He went on to represent Great Britain four times in 1968, including during that year’s World Cup tour to Australia and New Zealand.

At the club level, French played for St Helens between 1961 and 1967, amassing over 200 appearances. He later joined Widnes, continuing his impressive career in the domestic game.

The Rugby Football League (RFL) paid tribute, stating: “Ray made an immense and unique contribution to the sport of rugby league,” and extended condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues.

Outside of rugby, French also had a long career in education, working as an English teacher. He began his rugby journey at St Helens RUFC before switching codes and captaining the town’s league side to both a Championship and a Challenge Cup triumph.

Following his retirement from playing, French joined BBC Radio Merseyside in 1975, before stepping into television commentary in 1979. He succeeded the legendary Eddie Waring as the BBC’s lead rugby league commentator in 1981, becoming the voice of the sport for millions.

He also served as the rugby league correspondent for the Today newspaper from its inception in 1986 and retired from broadcasting in 2019. In recognition of his lasting impact, French was inducted into the RFL’s Roll of Honour in 2008 and was appointed an MBE in 2011 for his services to rugby league.

St Helens RFC said they were “deeply saddened” by the loss, noting: “His legacy as a Saint will see him long remembered, but his voice will forever be tied to cherished memories for fans across the country.”

Club chairman Eamonn McManus called French “a giant of a man in every sense,” adding: “He influenced so many lives as a teacher, a player, and a broadcaster. His warmth and distinctive voice will be missed deeply.”

Nigel Wood, chair of Rugby League Commercial, described French as “one of the true gentlemen of rugby league,” praising his lasting impact both on and off the field.

Leeds Rhinos were among many clubs to honour him, writing: “Ray French MBE was the voice of rugby league for a generation. Our thoughts are with his loved ones.”

Tributes also poured in from former players and colleagues. Barrie McDermott called French “a master of his trade” who was always generous with his time and advice, while former Great Britain star Jonathan Davies remembered him as “a lovely man” and “a legendary broadcaster” who gave so much to the sport.

Ray French leaves behind a legacy that transcends generations, etched into the fabric of rugby league history both through his achievements on the pitch and his unforgettable voice off it.