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World Rugby names Mark Robinson as Chief of Rugby

The former New Zealand Rugby chief executive was scheduled to join in May.

2026-01-27 International Dublin, Ireland
World Rugby names Mark Robinson as Chief of Rugby — report card; no event photograph has been cleared for this report
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World Rugby appointed Mark Robinson as its new Chief of Rugby, with his start scheduled for May. Robinson was assigned leadership of a new Rugby Division as the federation prepared to deliver its five-year strategy.

Reporting to chief executive Alan Gilpin, he would coordinate areas including match officials, game technology, laws, player welfare and fan experience. His experience included six years as chief executive of New Zealand Rugby and service on World Rugby’s Council and Executive Board.

The same announcement promoted Yvonne Nolan to Chief Regulatory Officer with immediate effect and confirmed Charlotte Samuelson’s departure that month. Robinson’s January appointment and planned May arrival were distinct dates; the report did not imply he had already begun the new role.

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