John O’Neill Quits as IRB Rugby World Cup Director

John O’Neill AO has stepped down as International Rugby Board (IRB) Rugby World Cup Limited Director for personal reasons it has been revealed.

O’Neill has made a major contribution to the growth and development of the sport both in his former roles as CEO of the Australian Rugby Union, IRB Council Member, and more latterly in his role as Rugby World Cup Limited Director, which he has performed since March 2012.

Rugby World Cup Board Chairman Bernard Lapasset led the tributes: “It is with great sadness that the Rugby World Cup Limited Board has received and reluctantly accepted John’s resignation.”

“The Board would like to thank John for his exceptional contribution and his tireless dedication to strengthening the Rugby World Cup brand, profile and profitability for the benefit of the global Game.”

“There is no doubt that his vision, energy, expertise and leadership has been instrumental in delivering the strong foundations for what promises to be hugely successful Rugby World Cups in England and Japan, while driving forward a review of future delivery of our flagship event.”

O’Neill said: “For my own personal reasons, I have resigned as a director of RWCL, effective immediately. I wish the Board and management every success for both RWC 2015 in England and RWC 2019 in Japan.”

The IRB will discuss replacing O’ Neill at their next board meeting in March.