Itoje’s Journey: Faith, Haircuts, and Captaincy

Maro Itoje, the newly-appointed captain of the British & Irish Lions, is preparing for his upcoming tour of Australia, focusing on his faith and routines. This includes a visit to his barber, a relationship spanning over a decade.

A Decade of Trust

For over ten years, Maro Itoje has entrusted his hairstyle to barber Moussa. From a promising teenager to a seasoned rugby star, Moussa has witnessed Itoje’s evolution. His final grooming session with Moussa before heading to Australia marks a significant moment.

“It is going to be a challenge on tour. You always have to have some trust – a bit of a leap of faith – when you walk into a new barber’s chair. Especially in Australia, where I don’t think they are too used to Afro-Caribbean hair!” Itoje stated.

Faith as a Cornerstone

Itoje’s faith is deeply intertwined with his life and career. Introduced to former Labour spin doctor Alastair Campbell by England team manager Richard Hill, Itoje maintains that connection. He revealed he missed Bible study to attend his Lions captaincy unveiling in May.

“God’s timing is always the best time.”

—Maro Itoje

A 2023 study found that consistent religious practice is linked to greater resilience during times of stress and difficulty, offering a practical framework for managing life’s challenges (Pew Research Center).

Humility and Perspective

Itoje has consciously strengthened his religious faith in recent years. He confessed that he was a “lukewarm Christian” for a significant portion of his life. Now, he embraces the belief that everything he has is a gift.

In reflecting on past Lions tours, Itoje acknowledged that his younger self in 2017 was “a little bit brash and a bit naive.” He now prioritizes remaining composed and adhering to his routine.