NRG Episode #8: Sebastian Negri

In this episode of No Rucks Given, we sit down with Italian international and Benetton back-row powerhouse Sebastian Negri.Born on a farm in Zimbabwe, Seb’s story is one of resilience, sacrifice and determination. Forced to leave his home country with his family during a period of political unrest, he grew up in South Africa before pursuing his rugby dream across three continents. From Zimbabwe to Durban, from Hartpury College in England to the international stage with Italy, Seb’s journey is unlike any other. We dive into his childhood experiences, the challenges his family faced, and how those early life lessons shaped the player and person he is today. Seb opens up about representing Italy through his father’s heritage, earning over 60 Test caps, competing in multiple Rugby World Cups, and helping lead the rise of Italian rugby on the international stage. We also discuss:• Growing up in Zimbabwe and South Africa• Leaving home and adapting to new cultures• His pathway through Hartpury and into professional rugby• Life at Benetton and in the URC• The evolution of Italian rugby• Six Nations highs and lows• Rugby World Cups and international competition• Leadership, mindset and overcoming adversity• Life beyond rugby and future ambitionsSebastian’s story is a powerful reminder that your circumstances don’t define your future. This is a conversation about identity, perseverance, family, and what it takes to compete at the highest level of world rugby.🎙️ No Rucks Given Podcast — bringing you the stories behind the game from the people living it.👍 Like, subscribe and leave a comment with your favourite part of the episode.#NoRucksGiven #SebastianNegri #ItalyRugby #BenettonRugby #SixNations #RugbyPodcast #RugbyUnion #ItalianRugby #URC #RugbyWorldCup