Dr. Brett Robinson of Australia has been elected as the new chairman of World Rugby after two rounds of voting at the 2024 interim World Rugby Council meeting held in Dublin, Ireland. At 54 years of age, Robinson marks a historic milestone as the first chairman elected from the Southern Hemisphere, defeating candidates Abdelatiff Benazzi from France and Andrea Rinaldo from Italy.
The election involved a confidential ballot, carefully monitored by independent scrutineers and observers, consistent with World Rugby’s Constitution. Robinson will begin his four-year term, with the opportunity to seek re-election for a second four-year term in 2028.
In his acceptance speech, Robinson expressed deep gratitude for the honor of serving in this critical role. He emphasized his enthusiasm for collaborating with member unions and the World Rugby executive to further strengthen the sport.
Robinson outlined several priorities for his tenure, including:
– Ensuring financial sustainability for all member unions in light of rising costs and wage inflation
– Strategically advancing World Rugby’s global growth agenda
– Enhancing skills that improve audience engagement and business outcomes
– Expanding the fan and player base through investments focused on player safety, legal reforms, and innovation
– Maintaining a disciplined and effective governing body
He reiterated his dedication to harness the passion of rugby to achieve commercial success while creating an inclusive culture within the sport. Robinson also took the time to congratulate fellow candidates and expressed his anticipation of collaborating with the newly elected World Rugby Executive Committee and other member unions.
Robinson takes over from Sir Bill Beaumont, who completed an eight-year term that significantly contributed to rugby’s governance and development. Beaumont was instrumental in reforming the international calendar, enhancing the visibility of men’s and women’s Rugby World Cups, and navigating the challenges posed by the global pandemic, all while strengthening relationships within the professional leagues and player organizations.
This leadership transition presents an opportunity for World Rugby to explore new strategies and continue its legacy of growth, inclusiveness, and innovation in the sport. As Robinson steps into this pivotal role, there is hope for renewed energy in fostering rugby’s development on a global scale, ultimately engaging more players and fans in the coming years.
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