Six Nations: Chief executive officer Ben Morel to step down

Adam Kyriacou
Italy ball in Six Nations

Six Nations chief executive Ben Morel will step down from his position at the end of the 2022/23 season, the organisation announced on Monday.

Morel, who started with Six Nations Rugby in 2018, helped secure private equity investment through a partnership with CVC capital partners during his tenure.

He guided Six Nations Rugby through Covid-19, which included launching the Autumn Nations Cup, a tournament staged in 2020 which was won by England.

Landmark deal for women’s championship

Morel also signed a title sponsorship with Guinness for the men’s Six Nations and brokered a first-ever title sponsor, TikTok, for the women’s championship.

“I am at the stage in my life when I want to tackle other personal and professional projects and a Rugby World Cup year is the perfect time to ensure a smooth transition to keep the pace of our rapid transformation,” said Morel about his decision to move on.

“There are several key projects I am focused on delivering before I depart and look forward to the next months ahead.”

Ronan Dunne, Chair of the Board of Six Nations Rugby, said: “We have been privileged to have Ben’s wise counsel and steadfast leadership during these past five seasons.

Outstanding performance

“He has delivered outstanding performance, whilst establishing a strong and effective organisation and executive leadership team, leaving us well placed to deliver on the next phase of our vision for Six Nations Rugby.”

A replacement for Morel is set to be announced in January, with the search for his successor already underway, according to Six Nations Rugby.

“The Six Nations Rugby Board are grateful that they have been given a long notice period to ensure a successful transition. The process to find a successor is underway with an announcement expected in the New Year,” they said in a statement.

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