'Incredibly challenging': Ospreys CEO Lance Bradley leaves the club

Lance Bradley has stepped down as Ospreys chief executive after two-and-a-half years at the helm, bringing an end to a tenure that saw the region navigate one of the most turbulent periods in Welsh rugby.

The Ospreys confirmed Bradley’s departure on Tuesday, with the outgoing CEO deciding to step away from the Welsh rugby environment. His replacement will be announced in due course.

Bradley arrived in January 2024 at a time when the Swansea-based region faced uncertainty on and off the field. During his time in charge, the Ospreys secured a permanent return to St Helen’s, improved their financial position and oversaw a significant rise in season ticket sales ahead of the 2026/27 campaign.

His exit comes as the region prepares to move into its new home with renewed optimism after signing the new Professional Rugby Agreement (PRA25) with the Welsh Rugby Union in June.

Reflecting on his decision, Bradley said he believed he was leaving the Ospreys in a stronger position than when he first arrived, pointing to improvements across the business and rugby operation as he signed off from the role.

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He said: “There’s a saying in rugby that you always want to leave the shirt in a better place than you found it. Despite an incredibly challenging last 12 months, I feel I’ve done that with Ospreys.

“When I joined in 2024 we had no stadium, our finances were in poor shape and although we had a loyal hardcore of fans, their numbers were dwindling.

“Next season we move into our own stadium at St Helen’s, our finances are looking better than ever, and season ticket sales are already by far the best they’ve been for more than a decade.

“Furthermore, the most important part of any rugby club, its playing side, is developing nicely – building on our status as Wales’ most successful Region.

“I’d like to thank everyone at and associated with Ospreys for their friendship and support. I wish the very best for the club in the future.”

In a statement, the Ospreys added: “Ospreys Rugby wishes to put on record its thanks to Lance for what he’s achieved in his tenure as CEO. We will make an announcement on his replacement in due course.”