Former Wallaby wins race to become most powerful man in world rugby

“During the course of the process, I have had many conversations with my colleagues around the world and am heartened by our shared ambition to continue to build on the strength of our game.

“Throughout this election process, I made it clear that my commitment, if elected, would be to work closely with member unions and the World Rugby executive team to deliver: Financial sustainability across all member unions amid a rising cost base and wage inflation, prudent execution of the next phase of World Rugby’s global growth agenda, competitions that drive audience engagement and commercial outcomes, fan and player growth through investment in player safety, law reform and innovation [and] a disciplined and fit for purpose governing body.

“Today, I reiterate my commitment as Chair to … to harness the abundant passion in our game and to lead for all, by creating the right culture to deliver commercial outcomes for a contemporary global sport, with the commitment to set a course and see it through.

Robinson, who has represented Australia at World Rugby since 2015, told the Herald in August he was well positioned to address rugby’s global problems after seeing them unfold in his own country.

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“Australia is a bit like the canary in the coal mine for the game … and many of the challenges we’re facing are now right are also in front of many of the member unions, having spoken to them over recent months,” Robinson said.

More to come

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