Rugby Star Maro Itoje's Royal & Royal Connections

Maro Itoje, captain for England and the Lions, is more than a rugby star; he's now the first male ambassador for Astrea London, a lab-grown diamond brand. His personal life includes a recent marriage to Mimi Itoje and a Nigerian wedding celebration, blending traditions.

Beyond sports, Itoje is dedicated to art. He co-founded the Akoje Gallery to elevate African, Caribbean, and diaspora artists globally. This initiative extends to a residency program with The King's Foundation at Dumfries House, offering artists a creative space.

His engagements with royalty include meeting The King, who is noted for his deep interest in art. The Prince and Princess of Wales, patrons of the RFU and WRU, are also enthusiastic supporters of rugby, often seen at matches.

Itoje's year is packed with Six Nations and Saracens' European campaigns, but he balances it with personal milestones, including navigating married life and celebrating his heritage. He recently missed an England training camp due to the profound loss of his mother in December.