Cyril Rutherford

Cyril Rutherford (20 August 1873 – 9 April 1951) was a French rugby union player of Scottish origin who played as a three-quarter for Racing Club at the turn of the century, becoming one of the most important and influential figures in the early development of French rugby. He was also a rugby football referee, overseeing a national French final in 1905 and an international match with France in 1908.

Sporting career Born on 20 August 1873 in Pulborough, West Sussex, Rutherford was 22 when he arrived in France, Following the retirement of both Pharamond and Reichel, he became the team's captain, leading his side to another French Rugby Union Championship in 1901–02, beating the same opponents 6–0 in the final on 23 March at the Parc des Princes. In December 1899, he started for Racing in a match against London Irish FC.

In 1904, Rutherford retired from playing to devote himself to refereeing, and within just a year, he was entrusted with the 1905 final despite his lack of experience. but also in the 1924 Olympic final between France and the USA in Paris. He was later knighted into the Legion of Honour. Following his death, the French Rugby Federation organized a consolation event called Coupe Cyril Rutherford in his honor.

Honours Stade Français French Rugby Union Championship: Champions (2): 1899–1900, 1901–02