Former Footballer for Arsenal, Wales & Celtic, SFWA Footballer of the Year 2005, Sky Sports & BT Sports Pundit, Gambling Addiction Awareness Advocate & Founder of The John Hartston Foundation
John Hartson’s Biography:
John Hartson is a former Welsh international footballer, respected football pundit and inspirational keynote speaker whose story of sporting success, personal adversity and resilience continues to captivate audiences across the UK. Best known for his prolific playing career with clubs including Arsenal, West Ham United and Celtic, John became one of only 28 players to score more than 100 goals for Celtic and finished his career with 399 appearances and 167 goals across club football. He also earned 51 senior international caps for Wales, alongside appearances for the Wales Under-21 side. Following his recovery from testicular cancer and his openness about battling gambling addiction, John shared his experiences through publishing several books, including ‘The Autobiography’, ‘Please Don’t Go: Big John’s Journey Back to Life’ and ‘John Hartson’s Celtic Dream Team’. He is now a passionate advocate for health awareness, mental resilience and addiction recovery, making him a highly sought-after keynote speaker for businesses, charities and sporting organisations.
Beginning his professional career with Luton Town, John quickly established himself as one of the brightest young talents in British football before joining Arsenal, where he played alongside legends including David Seaman, Tony Adams and Paul Merson. His career then saw successful spells with West Ham United, Wimbledon, Coventry City, Celtic, West Bromwich Albion and Norwich City. During his time in Scotland, he was named SFWA Footballer of the Year and PFA Scotland Players’ Player of the Year, while also receiving the Welsh Footballer of the Year award on three occasions. Following retirement, John moved into broadcasting as a pundit for Setanta Sports before becoming an analyst on ‘BT Sport Score’ and contributing to ITV’s FA Cup coverage. He also spent time as a part-time coach of Newport County.
Why Hire John Hartson?
Beyond football, John has built an outstanding reputation as a motivational speaker through his honesty, humour and deeply personal experiences. After being diagnosed with testicular cancer, he transformed his platform into a force for awareness and fundraising, later founding The John Hartson Foundation to support people affected by cancer and addiction. His work includes organising events such as the John Hartson Golf Day and the John Hartson Annual Sportsman Lunch, while also delivering gambling and addiction workshops alongside specialist addiction therapist Tony Marini. In recognition of his advocacy work, John was selected as the keynote speaker for the Police Federation of England and Wales webinar for Testicular Cancer Awareness Month. His combination of elite sporting achievement, candid storytelling and powerful lessons on resilience, recovery and mental strength make him an exceptional keynote speaker. Whether addressing corporate audiences, sporting organisations or health initiatives, John delivers authentic, emotional and inspiring presentations that leave a lasting impact.
John Hartson’s Career Highlights:
Here are some of the key milestones that define John Hartson’s remarkable career:
- 2024 – Delivered a keynote webinar for the Police Federation of England & Wales during Testicular Cancer Awareness Month
- 2016 – Became an analyst on ‘BT Sport Score’, bringing expert football insight and engaging commentary drawn from his years at the highest level of the game
- 2013 – Founded and became Ambassador of The John Hartson Foundation, supporting cancer awareness initiatives and helping families affected by serious illness
- 2012 – Published ‘John Hartson’s Celtic Dream Team’
- 2011 – Published ‘Please Don’t Go: Big John’s Journey Back to Life’
- 2011 – Took on a coaching role at Newport County
- 2008 – Worked as a pundit for Setanta Sports
- 2006 – Released ‘The Autobiography’
- 2005 – Earned both the SFWA Footballer of the Year and
- 2005 – Received the PFA Scotland Players’ Player of the Year award after an outstanding season with Celtic
Videos
John Hartson’s Official Keynote Speaking Videos & Showreel:
Testimonials
“John was a brilliant, fantastic speaker and very sociable outside of the dinner arena – would highly recommend.” – CECA Wales
“We had our special star guest, the ex-professional, Premiership and International footballer John Hartson, who presented his fascinating, inspirational and deeply honest personal story. This was an absolutely amazing presentation covering a multitude of important topics and at times amusing stories and anecdotes. In a short amount of time, John managed to cover many subjects such as; success in sport, ambition, gambling addiction, cancer, resilience and recovery. He also made time to field a range of questions from the audience.” – The Decommissioning Alliance (TDA)
“It was refreshingly different from these kind of sessions we’ve held for employees before. Very open, very honest. Quite emotional. You could see the impact on a lot of the guys in the room. It’s a massive problem everywhere so it’s good to see how we can do our bit.” – Claire, CEO
“It was a pleasure to welcome John Hartson to Parkland Place to discuss our services and the help we offer to those struggling with gambling addiction. We look forward to building this relationship and sharing our expertise.” – Cheryl, Services & Residential Manager, Adferiad Recovery
Speaking Topics
John Hartson’s Official Keynote Topics:
- Mental Health
- Mental Resilience
- Recovery
- Testicular Cancer
- Gambling Addiction
- Breaking Down Stigma Surrounding Addiction
How Much Does John Hartson Cost to Hire?
How Much Does it Cost to Hire John Hartson?
John Hartson’s speaking fees vary depending on the event format, location, duration and level of preparation required. For an accurate quote, please share your event date, location and brief with an official booking agent.