Sir Ian McGeechan set to deliver ‘Pub Pep Talk’ to fans ahead of Premiership Rugby final – as legendary former British and Irish Lions coach gives a nod to his iconic ‘Be Special’ speech from 1997

Legendary former British and Irish Lions coach Sir Ian McGeechan has created a bespoke emotive speech ahead of the Premiership Rugby final between Northampton Saints and Bath Rugby on Saturday.

McGeechan, who led the Lions in 1989, 1993, 1997 and 2009, overseeing victories in 1989 and most famously in 1997, has linked up with London Pride, the official beer of Premiership rugby.

The speech, dubbed a ‘Pub Pep Talk’, is designed to fire up fans ahead of the showpiece event. It was first delivered to fans inside the famous Cabbage Patch and will be heard by those in attendance at the final. 

It will feature a nod to McGeechan’s iconic ‘Be Special’ speech that he delivered to the Lions back in 1997, where they ended up beating South Africa 2-1 on the tour.

The reworked pep talk is hoping to spark a similar reaction to the one to the original, although this time it will be designed to motivate fans rather than players.

McGeechan has teamed up with London Pride to create a ‘Pub Pep Talk’, which is designed to fire up fans ahead of the showpiece event and will be heard by those in attendance at the final

‘With every tackle, every pass, every kick, they’ll look to you,’ a segment reads. ‘When their heads are down, and their strength is fading, and their nerves are deserting them, they’ll look to you. And you’ll be there. A symbol of courage and strength, like the Griffin on your pint glass.’

Speaking about the collaboration, McGeechan – who also coached Scotland, along with both Northampton and Bath – said: ‘Support is the backbone of every good team and the support shown by fans plays such a pivotal role in a team’s success. 

‘I hope the new take on my speech from the ’97 British Lions inspires fans to give it their all at the final, as they have no idea just how much impact it has.’

 It will feature a nod to McGeechan’s iconic ‘Be Special’ speech he gave to the Lions in 1997

Rob Hobart, Marketing Director at Fuller’s London Pride, added: ‘The Premiership Rugby Final is the biggest day in the club rugby calendar and we are here to help make it even more special for all fans by providing unforgettable London Pride experiences throughout the day.

‘Sir Ian McGeechan certainly knows a thing or two about motivating a team and we’re in no doubt that his ‘Pub Pep Talk’ will give fans the inspiration they need to support their team with pride and enjoy a brilliant day out.’ 

For more information about Fuller’s London Pride and the upcoming Premiership Rugby final, please visit: https://www.londonpridebeer.co.uk/premiership-rugby.