Remembering Ian McLauchlan

The funeral of Glasgow, Scotland and British & Irish Lions legend Ian McLauchlan takes place later this morning on Islay.

Affectionately known to all as ‘Mighty Mouse’ or ‘Mouse’, McLauchlan passed away last month at the age of 83.

A stalwart of Glasgow District, the former loose-head prop also earned 43 caps for Scotland; 19 of those caps came as captain, a world record until surpassed by David Sole.

McLauchlan was one of only five players to play in all eight Test matches for the British & Irish Lions across the 1971 and 1974 tours of New Zealand and South Africa respectively. His only Test try came for the Lions on the 1971 tour, a vital moment in a 9-3 win over the All Blacks – to date, the last time a Lions squad has won a Test series in New Zealand.

He also served as Scottish Rugby president from 2010 to 2012, in addition to serving on the Scottish Rugby Board from 2010 to 2019 as well as chair of the British & Irish Lions Trust; trustee and chair of Scottish Rugby’s own charity, the Murrayfield Injured Players Foundation; and a director of the Hearts + Balls rugby charity.

Paying tribute, Glasgow Warriors Managing Director, Al Kellock, said:

“On behalf of everyone at Glasgow Warriors, I want to pay tribute to Ian McLauchlan, a true giant of Scottish Rugby.

“Mouse was a player of immense courage, skill, and passion, but more than that, he was a man who embodied everything good about our game. His contributions extended far beyond the pitch; he inspired generations, led with quiet authority, and always carried the pride of Scottish Rugby with him wherever he went.

“For myself personally, Mouse was a mentor and a friend. Someone whose words carried weight because they came from experience, humility, and genuine love for the sport.

“He’ll be deeply missed by all of us at the club and across the wider rugby community. Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones at this time.”