Inside Bloodgate, Rugby’s Most Notorious Scandal with Tom Williams

In this powerful and deeply human episode of Just Curious, Nicky and George talk to former Harlequins and England rugby player Tom Williams to explore one of the most infamous chapters in sporting history…and what came after.

Tom is best known for his involvement in the 2009 "Bloodgate" scandal, where he was instructed to fake a blood injury during a Heineken Cup match. But as he shares candidly with Nicky and George, what unfolded wasn’t just about a blood capsule, it was about culture, leadership, and a crisis mishandled from every angle.

In his twenties, Tom was caught in a "win at all costs" environment that prized silence and compliance over ethics. With no real media training, no crisis plan, and no support structures, he became the face of a scandal while senior figures remained in the background. His eventual whistleblowing came at immense personal cost, both emotionally and professionally.

But this story isn’t about downfall. It’s about reinvention. Tom shares how he rebuilt his career after retiring from rugby, eventually becoming a partner in two businesses under the Skylark brand. The same values that drove him on the pitch - resilience, loyalty, drive - are now guided by something deeper: integrity.

There’s wisdom here for leaders far beyond the sports field. From the importance of diversity in decision-making rooms, to why authenticity (even in crisis) builds stronger reputations, Tom’s reflections are a masterclass in image, communications, and leadership.

As he says, “Reputation is so hard to build. People accept mistakes if you hold up your hands. It’s when you double down on the lie, that’s when the damage is done.”