Australia's Brett Robinson elected new chairman of World Rugby

Dr. Brett Robinson of Australia has been elected as the new Chair of World Rugby, marking the first time a representative from the southern hemisphere has held the position. Robinson, 54, was selected over fellow candidates Abdelatif Benazzi of France and Andrea Rinaldo of Italy following two rounds of voting at the 2024 Interim meeting of the World Rugby Council in Dublin.

The election was conducted by secret ballot, with 52 Council members casting their votes under the oversight of scrutineers and independent observers in line with World Rugby Bye-Laws. This process followed a thorough nominations and vetting procedure.

Robinson will serve a four-year term as Chair, with the option to seek re-election in 2028 for a second term. His appointment reflects a notable shift in World Rugby’s leadership, with expectations that his tenure will bring a renewed focus on expanding the sport’s global reach.

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“It is an immense privilege and honour to have been elected World Rugby Chair by my Council colleagues today. During the course of the process, I have had many conversations with my colleagues around the world and am heartened by our shared ambition to continue to build on the strength of our game.

Key priorities for Robinson include ensuring financial sustainability for member unions, executing World Rugby’s growth strategy, developing engaging competitions with commercial impact, investing in player safety and innovation, and maintaining an effective governing body.

“Today, I reiterate my commitment as Chair to do so, to harness the abundant passion in our game and to lead for all, by creating the right culture to deliver commercial outcomes for a contemporary global sport, with the commitment to set a course and see it through.

“I congratulate those elected today and extend my best wishes to those who had the courage to run for office but were not successful. I look forward to now getting to work with the new World Rugby Executive Board, Alan and the World Rugby executive and my colleagues in the member unions.”

Robinson succeeds Sir Bill Beaumont, who concluded his maximum eight-year term marked by historic reforms in governance, international scheduling, and Rugby World Cup expansion for both men’s and women’s tournaments. Beaumont also introduced a modernized hosting model focused on growth, navigated the sport through the global pandemic, and strengthened ties with professional leagues and player organizations, contributing significantly to the women’s game’s rise.

Voting results – Chair election

Round 1
Abdelatif Benazzi 21
Andrea Rinaldo 9 (eliminated)
Brett Robinson 22

Round 2
Abdelatif Benazzi 25
Brett Robinson 27