Members of the rugby community, including many Scottish greats and international stars, convened in Edinburgh on Saturday to commemorate the life of Scott Hastings. The former British and Irish Lion and Scotland centre passed away on May 17 at the age of 61, following complications related to his cancer treatment. The gathering took place at George Watson’s College, Hastings' former school, where hundreds paid their respects to a man widely admired within the sport.
Among those present were numerous former teammates from both Scotland and the British and Irish Lions, alongside a wide array of friends and family. Guests were encouraged to wear colourful attire, leading to a vibrant display of bright pastels, colourful designs, and tartans. Former players, including Scotland legends Brian Redpath, Ian McGeechan, John Beattie, Rob Wainwright, and Jim Telfer, as well as international figures like England’s Brian Moore and Rob Andrew, Wales’ Ieuan Evans, and France’s Abdelatif Benazzi, were seen reminiscing before the private service.
Scott's brother, Gavin Hastings, himself a distinguished international player who often played alongside him, delivered a speech during the service. Speaking to the Press Association beforehand, Gavin described his brother as "one of the great human beings," highlighting Scott’s open nature and "extraordinary generosity of spirit." He noted that Scott "touched a lot of people’s lives in a very positive way," a sentiment echoed by the widespread attendance at the event.
Gavin Hastings drew parallels between the impact of Scott's passing and that of Doddie Weir, another beloved Scottish rugby character who died in 2022, remarking that both were "gone far too soon." He also acknowledged the challenging period Scott had faced in recent years, particularly after the death of his wife Jenny in 2024, but emphasised the family's resilience. The outpouring of support, including "hundreds and hundreds and hundreds of letters and messages," had been “almost overwhelming,” yet provided strength, he added.
Keith Wallace, President of the Scottish Rugby Union, also paid tribute, remembering Hastings as a "great man." Wallace highlighted Hastings' dedication to rugby, stating, "the more you put in, the more you get out, and, boy, did he put it in." He referenced Hastings' achievements as a player, including his Grand Slam victory with Scotland in 1990 and his time with the British Lions, as well as his later contributions as a commentator and his loyalty to his club, Watsonians. The diverse attendance, with people travelling from England, Wales, and France, underscored the respect Hastings commanded globally within the sport.