Former Wallaby joins the race for top World Rugby position
There is plenty of interest in race to be World Rugby's new chairman.
Former Australia and Brumbies back-row Brett Robinson has officially announced that he is joining the race to become the new chairman of World Rugby.
The position is currently held by former England captain Sir Bill Beaumont, who is stepping down after two terms in charge and World Rugby’s council will vote for the new chairman in November.
Robinson, who is 54 years old, represented the Wallabies in 16 Tests between 1996 and 1998 and captained the Brumbies at Super Rugby level.
Set to compete with Scotland’s John Jeffrey
He is set to compete with former Scotland back-row John Jeffrey, who is World Rugby’s current vice-chairman, for the governing body’s top position.
If he is elected, Robinson will become the first administrator from the Southern Hemisphere to hold World Rugby’s position of chairman since its inception in 1996.
Robinson is currently sitting on World Rugby’s executive board and previously held an administrative position as part of Rugby Australia’s high performance unit.
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He issued a statement to confirm his candidacy which said: “It is a privilege to be a part of the great, global game of rugby.
“It is why, after careful consideration and engagement with the broader World Rugby membership, I take great pride in confirming my nomination for the chair of World Rugby.
‘Discussed the state of the game’
“In recent months I have discussed the state of the game, and the challenges and opportunities that exist, with many of my colleagues in member unions and regional associations across the world and in both hemispheres.
“These conversations have provided clarity on what is needed to address the current challenges and drive our game forward.
“Through our next cycle, World Rugby needs a laser focus on addressing the core issues that are challenging our game, but also which provide the best opportunity to drive our game forward.
“As chair, my objective would be to embody the values of rugby to inspire strong, transparent and inclusive leadership, which positions our game to reach its potential on the global sporting stage.”
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