Dr. Brett Robinson of Australia has been appointed as the new chairman of World Rugby, marking a significant milestone as he becomes the first president elected from the Southern Hemisphere. His election occurred during the 2024 interim World Rugby Council meeting held in Dublin, Ireland, where he emerged victorious after two rounds of voting against competitors Abdelatiff Benazzi from France and Andrea Rinaldo from Italy.
Robinson, 54, was selected by the 52-member Council, with the voting process being conducted through a secret ballot monitored by independent observers to ensure compliance with World Rugby’s Constitution. He will serve a four-year term, with the option to seek re-election for another four years in 2028.
In his address to the Council, Robinson expressed his appreciation and said, “It is an immense privilege and honour to have been elected as World Rugby chairman by my colleagues on Council.” He also conveyed his optimism about the collective vision shared among Council members to strengthen the sport moving forward.
If elected, Robinson committed to several key initiatives, including:
– Ensuring financial sustainability for all member unions amidst rising costs and wage inflation
– Strategically advancing World Rugby’s global growth agenda
– Enhancing skills that drive audience engagement and business success
– Expanding the fan and player base through investments in player safety, legal reforms, and innovation
– Establishing a disciplined and effective governing body
He underscored his dedication to leveraging the passion within the sport to achieve commercial success in an evolving global landscape, emphasizing a culture that fosters collaboration and results.
Robinson succeeds Sir Bill Beaumont, whose impactful eight-year tenure included pivotal reforms in governance and the international rugby calendar, as well as significant advancements for both men’s and women’s Rugby World Cups. Beaumont navigated the sport through challenging times, like the global pandemic, while fostering relationships with professional leagues and player organizations.
In a positive light, Robinson’s election heralds a new era for World Rugby, with a focus on growth, inclusivity, and modernization. His governance promises to build on the foundations laid by his predecessor and expand the reach and engagement of rugby worldwide.
This leadership change not only signifies a shift in representation but also brings renewed hope for rugby’s future, suggesting an era where rugby continues to grow as a dynamic and inclusive global sport.
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