Brett Robinson: Southern Hemisphere's First World Rugby Chairman

Australian Brett Robinson has been elected as the first permanent chairman of World Rugby from the southern hemisphere, succeeding Bill Beaumont. He emerged victorious over Abdelatif Benazzi with a narrow margin. Robinson pledges a progressive strategy focusing on global growth and player welfare.

Australian Brett Robinson made history on Thursday by becoming the first permanent chairman of World Rugby from the southern hemisphere. His election took place at the 2024 Interim meeting of the World Rugby Council in Dublin.

Robinson secured the position by defeating Moroccan contender Abdelatif Benazzi by two votes in a tightly contested second round, after Italian Andrea Rinaldo was eliminated in the initial voting. This leadership change signifies the end of Bill Beaumont's eight-year tenure as chairman.

Expressing his gratitude, Robinson said, "It is an immense privilege and honour to have been elected World Rugby Chair by my Council colleagues today." He emphasized his commitment to global growth, deepened collaboration, and player welfare, promising to lead a progressive evolution of the sport's strategy.

(With inputs from agencies.)