Former RFU Chair Martyn Thomas dies

Former RFU Chair Martyn Thomas, one of the driving forces behind England securing the hosting rights for RWC 2015, has died at the age of 81.

A wily and skilful operator, Thomas held several administrative posts within rugby, including a spell as acting chief executive of English rugby’s governing body. He was also a European Rugby Cup Ltd director, International Rugby Board (now World Rugby) Council member and a Six Nations Committee member.

Thomas became RFU Chair in April 2005 following the resignation of Graeme Cattermole. He had been elected to the RFU Council four years earlier, representing Nottinghamshire, Lincolnshire and Derbyshire.

In a post on X, the RFU said: “The RFU is saddened to hear of the death of Martyn Thomas, who served the sport for many years. During his time as Chair of the RFU board, he helped secure England’s hosting of the 2015 Rugby World Cup and was at the centre of the first Professional Game Agreement.”

A lawyer by profession, Thomas played rugby for Old Millhillians, and lived on a 500-acre farm in Pembrokeshire, Wales for the majority of his adult life.

Sir Bill Beaumont, former England captain, World Rugby chair and current RFU senior Vice President, said: “We are all very sad to hear that Martyn has died. He was a real character, an excellent negotiator and did a great deal for rugby union.

“A tremendous advocate for the community game, Martyn also helped secure improved relationships between the professional clubs and the Union. He will be very much missed, and our thoughts are with his son Bryn and his family and friends.”