Richard Whitehead

Richard Whitehead MBE is a globally recognised Diversity and Inclusion keynote speaker, Paralympic athlete and record-breaking endurance runner. Born with a double through-knee congenital amputation, Richard has spent his life challenging perceptions of disability and redefining what is possible. His journey is grounded in the belief that visibility drives change, and that representation in sport and society creates opportunity for others to thrive.

Richard’s early career began in ice sledge hockey, where he represented Great Britain at the 2006 Winter Paralympic Games in Turin. He later transitioned into athletics, discovering a natural talent for both sprinting and endurance running. Competing with carbon fibre prosthetic blades, Richard quickly rose through the ranks to become one of the most versatile para-athletes in the world. His breakthrough moment came at the London 2012 Paralympic Games, where he secured Gold in the T42 200m, a title he successfully defended at the Rio 2016 Paralympic Games, alongside a Silver in the 100m.

Alongside his Paralympic success, Richard has built an extraordinary marathon career. He is the world record holder for athletes with bilateral knee amputations, most recently setting a new benchmark at the 2026 TCS London Marathon with a time of 2:40:25, surpassing his own previous records. His endurance achievements include completing 40 marathons in 40 days from John O’Groats to Land’s End as part of his ‘Richard Whitehead Runs Britain’ campaign, raising vital funds for charitable causes. In recognition of his impact, he was awarded an MBE for Services to Athletics and continues to serve as a Patron of Sarcoma UK and other organisations supporting disability inclusion and community sport.

As a keynote speaker, Richard delivers powerful insights on diversity, inclusion and human potential. He draws on lived experience to challenge limiting beliefs, encouraging audiences to see disability as a strength and a source of innovation. His talks cover resilience, mental wellbeing, leadership and inclusive culture, offering practical strategies that resonate across corporate, educational and public sectors. Whether sharing lessons from elite competition or moments of adversity, Richard connects with audiences in a way that inspires action. His message is rooted in real experience, when individuals are given the opportunity to be seen and supported, they are empowered to achieve extraordinary outcomes.