Ross Kemp Hosts BBC Podcast on Rugby’s Biggest Scandal – Bloodgate | Listen Now

BBC Radio 5 Live is back with another gripping season of Sport’s Strangest Crimes, and this time, it takes a deep dive into one of the most notorious scandals in British rugby history – Bloodgate. The latest series is hosted by award-winning documentary maker and actor Ross Kemp, with investigative reporting by BBC Rugby Union Correspondent Chris Jones.

Ross Kemp hosting BBC podcast on Bloodgate, featuring exclusive interviews and shocking revelations from the infamous rugby scandal

This explosive podcast series unravels shocking new details, previously unheard stories, and exclusive interviews that expose the shocking depths of deception and betrayal in professional rugby.

Table of Contents

The Scandal That Shook Rugby

In what started as a seemingly minor incident involving a fake blood capsule from a joke shop, Bloodgate turned into a full-fledged scandal that rocked the sport. The orchestrated deception led to intense scrutiny, destroyed careers, and tarnished reputations across the rugby world.

Key Takeaways from the Bloodgate Podcast

A deep exploration into the Harlequins rugby team’s elaborate scheme to manipulate the game.
Tom Williams, the player at the center of the scandal, shares his untold side of the story.
Behind-the-scenes revelations about how rugby legend Dean Richards masterminded the deception.
Insights from referees, journalists, and former players who witnessed the shocking events firsthand.
The long-term consequences of the scandal and how it reshaped rugby’s ethical standards.

Tom Williams Breaks His Silence

One of the most compelling elements of the series is the exclusive interview with Tom Williams, the Harlequins winger who became the face of the Bloodgate controversy.

Williams speaks candidly about how he got caught up in the scandal, the immense pressure to comply, and the moment he decided to blow the whistle on the cover-up. His decision to expose the truth sent shockwaves through the sport, ultimately leading to severe repercussions for himself and others involved.

The Fallout: Dean Richards’ Career-Altering Ban

At the heart of the scandal was Dean Richards, a revered figure in rugby, who orchestrated the scheme. Once the truth surfaced, Richards faced a three-year ban from the sport, marking one of the most significant disciplinary actions in rugby history.

His downfall served as a stark warning for the sporting world, highlighting the severe consequences of deception at the highest levels of competition.

Ross Kemp’s Perspective on the Scandal

As a passionate rugby fan, Ross Kemp expressed his astonishment at the events that transpired:

“The Bloodgate episode was truly shocking because it went against the very values that rugby upholds. But what was even more incredible was the extent of the cover-up and the dark dealings that followed.”

“At times farcical, at others disturbing, this podcast takes listeners on a rollercoaster journey through one of the biggest sporting scandals of all time.”

Star-Studded Interviews & Expert Analysis

The podcast not only revisits the events through Kemp’s gripping narration but also features exclusive interviews with rugby legends and key figures who played pivotal roles in uncovering the scandal.

Notable Guests Include:

Brian O’Driscoll – Rugby icon and former Ireland captain.
Shane Horgan – Former Ireland international.
Ugo Monye – Ex-Harlequins and England winger.
Nick Easter – Former Harlequins captain.
Nigel Owens – Renowned international referee.

Alongside players, the series also brings insights from investigative journalists who worked tirelessly to uncover the deception and the chaos that ensued in the aftermath.

Where & When to Listen

The first four episodes of Sport’s Strangest Crimes: Bloodgate will be available exclusively on BBC Sounds from 15 March, with the next three episodes set to drop on 22 March. Listeners can tune in to hear the most comprehensive account of rugby’s greatest scandal.