I know from experience, buying gifts can be tough, particularly for a rugby fan. And while reading isn’t for everyone, some of the best gifts I’ve received over the years has been a good old fashioned book related to rugby – whether it’s an autobiography from an iconic player or a book about historic matches of yesteryear.
So, I’ve compiled a list of some of my favourite options and the best rugby books available online and in-store. Read on to learn more about my top picks!
Disclaimer: There are some affiliate links included in this article, which means I’ll make a small commission if you purchase the books through my links. This has not impacted which books I chose – I’ve simply listed some of my favourite rugby books based on my own experience as an avid rugby fan.
Best Rugby Books for 2026: Ratings, Costs and Reviews
Here are my top picks for the best rugby books, based on my subjective experience as a rugby fan, plus reader reviews and star ratings.
Best Books About Rugby, At a Glance:
- Kevin Sinfield: The Extra Mile
- Around the World in 80 Minutes: In Search of Rugby Greatness
- Joe Marler: Loose Head: Confessions of an (un)professional rugby player
- The Good, the Bad & the Rugby – Unleashed
- Johnny Sexton: Obsessed: The Autobiography
- Open Side: Sam Warburton
- Rugby Legends: 20 Inspiring Biographies For Kids
Kevin Sinfield: The Extra Mile
What better way to motivate yourself than learn more about the life and times of Kevin Sinfield, one of the most inspirational people on planet earth right now? This book won the 2024 Sports Bestseller Award, and explores his latest adventures as he aims to raise money and awareness in memory of his dear friend Rob Burrow, who sadly passed away from MND in 2024.
- Amazon Rating: 4.7/5
- Price (RRP): £10.99
Around the World in 80 Minutes: In Search of Rugby Greatness
With testimonials from Stuart Barnes and Will Carling, this is a book not to be ignored. While many opt for an autobiography from a big name, I’d definitely recommend considering this little gem of a book. It may take you longer than 80 minutes to finish, though!
- Amazon Rating: 4.7/5
- Cost (RRP): £12.99
Joe Marler: Loose Head: Confessions of an (un)professional rugby player
Joe Marler, one of the most controversial and interesting folks in rugby today. Who wouldn’t want to read what he has to say? Not only is he a downright character, but he’s also – to my mind – one of the best props in the northern hemisphere over the last decade. My Amazon app listed it as a bestseller in Organised Crime Biographies, so make of that what you wish… From being locked in a jail to singing Adele on national TV, there are stories you just need to hear in this book.
- Amazon Rating: 4.6/5
- Cost (RRP): £14.99
In this series: Best Football Books
The Good, the Bad & the Rugby – Unleashed
The front cover includes a quote from Owen Farrell: “I want absolutely nothing to do with this book” – that should give you a preview of the type of humour to expect. Here’s some of the questions James Haskell, Mike Tindall and Alex Payne answer:
“What happened when Mike Tindall took their shambles of a podcast inside the walls of Windsor Castle to meet the Prince and Princess of Wales and The Princess Royal?”
- Amazon Rating: 4.3/5
- Price (RRP): £22
Johnny Sexton: Obsessed: The Autobiography
Obsessed. Johnny Sexton was quite simply obsessed with rugby and being the best. And that’s exactly what he became; one of the best fly halves in modern rugby history. With his iconic shoulder pads and an attitude of a winner, he made some enemies along the way – and this book includes that famous spat with Reiko Ioane, which you won’t want to miss.
- Amazon Rating: 4.2/5
- Cost (RRP): £25
Open Side: Sam Warburton
Open Side is one of the best books I’ve ever read, full stop. Regardless of whether or not this was a list of best rugby books or any book; it would make my top 10 books of all time. If you’re a fan of rugby, whether in the UK or further afield. you simply must read it. Warburton experienced the highest of highs and the lowest of lows, and he tells a great story. I’d definitely recommend this from one of the best Wales has ever produced.
- Amazon Rating: 4.7/5
- Cost (RRP): £10.99
Rugby Legends: 20 Inspiring Biographies For Kids – The Greatest Rugby Players Of All Time
This is one for the younger rugby fans – rated as one of the best rugby books for kids, this will help the next generation learn more about the best rugby players of all time. Campese, Lomu, Carter, Wilkinson, McCaw; this book includes a quick biography of some of the most iconic players ever and is a perfect gift for the more curious younger fans hoping to learn more about rugby history.
- Amazon Rating: 4.5/5
- Cost (RRP): £8.99
Are Rugby Books Good Gifts?
Rugby books are fantastic gifts for avid fans. In fact, it’s one of my favourite types of rugby gifts to receive. Here’s a picture of just a few of the books I’ve received over the years as a rugby fan:
Where To Buy a Rugby Book
Honestly, you can get a rugby book just about anywhere. In the past, I’ve rented rugby books from libraries, I’ve bought them from an in-store shop like the Works or WHSmith, and I’ve made quick orders on Amazon (it was originally a book store, after all!). Wherever works for you!
How to Choose the Best Rugby Book
There are a lot of rugby books on the market, and chances are the person you’re buying it for – whether it’s you or a loved one – is also interested in other sports, so it’s a tough decision.
An autobiography is an easy option if you or the person you’re buying for is a fan of a certain player, but don’t sleep on some of the more generic books out there – like some of those in my list!
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