Thursday 8 October 2026
The Anthologist, Gresham Street, London EC2V 7BB
A legendary rugby reunion, a room full of stories – and a great afternoon in support of young Londoners.
We’re thrilled to announce that TackleLondon, delivered through the Matt Ratana Rugby Foundation, has been selected as the charity of choice for the Wasps Legends Long Lunch 2026.
On Thursday 8 October, former players, supporters, sponsors, friends and the wider rugby community will come together at The Anthologist in London for an afternoon celebrating the characters, stories and memories of a very special era of rugby — while raising vital funds for TackleLondon.
For us, it’s a brilliant opportunity to bring the rugby community together around something that really matters.
Rugby, memories and a good cause
This year’s Long Lunch is going Old Skool. Expect big characters, bigger stories, plenty of rugby nostalgia and the kind of tales that somehow improve every time they’re told.
There’ll be great food, drinks, entertainment, a charity raffle and a live auction — with plenty of opportunity to catch up with old friends, meet former players and enjoy a proper afternoon with the rugby community. And importantly, your ticket helps create opportunities for young Londoners through our programme.
TackleLondon uses rugby and long-term mentoring to support young people across some of London’s most under-resourced communities. Through consistent coaching relationships, young people have a safe space to build confidence, resilience, life skills and a sense of belonging – with coaches who keep showing up, week after week.
Funds raised through the Long Lunch will help us continue delivering that work across London.
A Taste of the Afternoon
12.00 – Arrival
Step into The Anthologist and you’re straight into it: old skool rugby energy, familiar faces, a drink in hand. This is where the stories start before you’ve even sat down.
12.30 – Welcome
Take your seat as the room settles and the welcome kicks things off – the first glimpse of the impact behind the lunch.
13.00 – Lunch is served
A three-course seasonal menu, wine flowing, the room loosening up. Legends at your table, tales from the pitch, that easy afternoon rhythm setting in.
15.00 – Fundraising & live auction
The energy shifts up a gear. Paddles in the air, laughter, a bit of friendly competition – and every bid goes straight toward giving more young Londoners a place in the game.
16.00 – Onward
Official close, but the afternoon doesn’t have to end. Head to the bar, keep the stories going.
What you’ll walk away with: an afternoon of genuine rugby heritage, new connections, and the knowledge that your seat helped fund real opportunities for kids who need them most. And who knows… perhaps some fantastic raffle and auction prizes!
Save your seat – BOOK NOW
Whether it’s a single seat or a table for ten, we’d love to see you at the Wasps Legends Long Lunch 2026.
Thank you, Wasps Legends Charitable Foundation
We’re incredibly grateful to the Wasps Legends Charitable Foundation for choosing to support TackleLondon through this year’s event.
Their backing will help us keep creating free opportunities for young people to get involved in rugby, build positive relationships and feel part of a community.
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