What was the name of Cú Chulainn's charioteer?

What was the name of Cú Chulainn’s charioteer? His charioteer was Láeg, often written Laeg or Láeg mac Riangabra. He served as Cú Chulainn’s trusted companion throughout the heroic tales of the Ulster Cycle.

Láeg is not merely a driver in the background. In the Táin Bó Cúailnge, he accompanies Cú Chulainn during the defense of Ulster and helps him navigate battles, raids and dangerous encounters. A charioteer in this warrior society was expected to manage speed, direction and timing while remaining close to the fighting.

His role also highlights Cú Chulainn’s extraordinary combat style. The hero often fights from a chariot, and Láeg helps position him for attacks or escape. In several accounts, the pair operate as a coordinated team, with Láeg observing events and reporting what he sees.

The distractors are prominent Ulster figures but not the charioteer: Cathbad is a druid, Conall Cernach is a celebrated warrior, and Ferdiad is Cú Chulainn’s formidable friend and opponent. Spelling varies because the name is transliterated from Old Irish.