WRU CEO Abi Tierney to take ‘some time away from her duties’

Lawrence Nolan 13 Aug 2025 11:32 AM

Abi Tierney will temporarily step back from her role as Wales Rugby Union CEO from next week. The chief executive was present at last week’s unveiling of Steve Tandy as the new Wales national team head coach following last February’s departure of Warren Gatland.

She has also been busy with the consultation process surrounding the future of elite rugby in Wales, where the speculation is that the number of regional teams could be cut from four to two.

However, she is now set to take a leave of absence from August 22 following a recent health diagnosis. This decision will now see WRU chair Richard Collier-Keywood become more involved in the rugby business for the immediate future.

A statement read: “WRU CEO Abi Tierney has been diagnosed with cancer and will be taking some time away from her duties to undergo treatment, from 22nd August.”

“I kindly ask for understanding and privacy…”

Tierney explained: “This has not been an easy decision, but it is one I must make to focus fully on my health and recovery.

“I am grateful for the support I have already received from my family, friends, and colleagues, and I am confident in the team’s ability to continue our work during my absence. I kindly ask for understanding and privacy during this time.”

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WRU chair Richard Collier-Keywood added: “I, together with the whole of the board and everyone involved with Welsh rugby, wish Abi well over this period and the WRU is committed to supporting her during this time.

“In my role as chair, I will continue to have overall responsibility for the WRU and to provide cover and give Abi the space she needs, I will be more involved in the immediate future.

“Abi and the board have recruited a strong executive team, which will continue to lead the WRU on a day-to-day basis, supported by Alison Thorne.

“The most important topic on our agenda right now is the consultation on the future of elite rugby in Wales.

“This will be led by our director of rugby and elite performance, Dave Reddin, as a member of the executive and I will take overall responsibility for its successful delivery, working closely with board members including Malcolm Wall as chair of the Professional Rugby Board, Amanda Bennett who leads at board level on our women’s game and Andrew Williams.”

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