Franny’s Latest Book

Francis ‘Franny’ Benali played football for 20 years for Southampton FC in nearly 400 games.His utter dedication to the club caused him to be a hero to Saints fans around the world.

Franny’s Latest Video

Franny is an experienced public speaker, drawing upon his 16 year career as a professional footballer playing against some of the best players in the world, as well as how he planned and completed three ultra endurance challenges. 

Francis Benali Showreel 

About Francis Benali MBE

Follow his journey

Ask anyone involved with Southampton Football Club about Francis Benali and they’ll describe a loyal club legend. The former professional footballer and coach spent the majority of his 20 year playing career with the club. 

After 389 games with Southampton Francis, or Franny as he’s more affectionately known, is still a fans’ favourite today, thanks to his commitment to the club, hardworking attitude and ferocious, full-blooded tackles. Many fans will remember Franny playing through injuries to help the team, including famously playing on with a broken arm!

Keynote Speaking

Franny has built up a great reputation as an inspirational and motivational speaker. Covering topics such as working through hardships, leadership and developing a tough mindset.

TV Pundit

Since his career as a professional footballer Franny has appeared on Sky Sports, BT Sports, BBC, ITV, Talksport, Late Kick off and Channel 5. 

Charity Work

One of the most courageous and incredible pieces of work Franny did was raise over £1million for charity by putting himself through three ultra endurance challenges.  

Franny’s Journey in numbers

From his previous career as a professional footballer to his career as a keynote speaker Franny has achieved some incredible numbers in the last 35 years. 

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Looking to hire Franny?

Francis Benali is available as a keynote speaker and sports presenter. 

Keynote Speaker

Franny is an experienced public speaker, drawing upon his 16 year career as a professional footballer playing against some of the best players in the world, as well as how he planned, trained for and completed his three epic, ultra endurance challenges.


TV Punditry

Franny appears regularly on Sky Sports and BT Sport, providing well-informed opinions based on years of experience within football. He offers a player’s perspective on key topics, providing punditry and commentary on some of the biggest teams and matches.


Charity Work

Franny carried out his first Ultra endurance challenge for Cancer Research UK, completing ultra endurance challenge over three weeks visiting all 20 Premier League grounds, his efforts raising over £265,000. Since then he has gone on to raise £1.3m for charity. 


Clients

What people are saying

Franny spoke to a team of Operational Supervisor’s in a safety critical role, where he brilliantly drew parallels between professional sports teams and high-performing leadership teams. His speech was thought provoking, inspirational and motivational and the whole team were captivated by it. The very fact that Franny was able to deliver such a speech with passion, humour and humility is testament to his ability to motivate others. I would thoroughly recommend him to anybody looking for a motivational and inspiring presentation.

Brian Wheeler, Deputy General Manager, London Terminal Control, Swanwick Centre

I approached Franny to be a guest on The Everyday Adventure Podcast after hearing his story from a mutual friend. Throughout our interactions, from our initial phone conversation right through to recording the episode, I was blown away by his humility, generosity and willingness to share the challenges he has faced, as well as his incredible acheivements. As a guest he was utterly inspirational and he formed a real connection with the audience, as shown by the amazing feedback I have received since.I would highly recommend Franny as a guest and speaker; you cannot fail to be inspired by his outlook and approach to life. 

Will Cope, Presenter, Broadcaster, Journalist & Course Leader of ‘Sports Journalism’ at Southampton Solent University

Franny came into Southampton Academy to speak to our U18s about his career path, his commitment and dedication to the sport and also his charity work. The session was thoroughly engaging and the players enjoyed listening to what Franny had to say. Franny spoke to the players in a way that encouraged questions and also opened their minds to a new way of ding things. I wouldn’t hesitate in having Franny back in to speak to the boys again.

Ian Herding, Performance Education and Life Care Officer, Southampton FC

We were honoured to have Francis Benali as the keynote speaker at our annual conference. His inspiring story of determination, resilience, and community spirit deeply resonated with everyone in attendance. Francis has a unique ability to connect with his audience, delivering powerful messages that leave a lasting impact. We are incredibly grateful for his time and contribution and would highly recommend him as a speaker for any event. Thank you, Francis, for motivating us all to push beyond our limits and make a difference!

James Oldbury Business Development Manager – Belvoir Group

Franny was guest speaker at our 10 year anniversary dinner. As a ‘local hero’, his story of how he made it as a professional footballer and then went on to achieve so much for charity by putting his body on the line is one that audiences of all ages and backgrounds can relate to. Franny demonstrates that if you focus on your goal and have real commitment, you can achieve whatever you set out to do. Our members gave me great feedback on how much they enjoyed Franny’s story.

Ian Ritchie, hon secretary, Eastleigh FC Walking Football.

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