SANZAAR announce new Chief Executive and Chairman

Southern hemisphere rugby union body SANZAAR have announced the promotion of its current Chief Operating Officer, Brendan Morris, as its new Chief Executive, replacing the former postholder Andy Marinos who is taking on the Chief Executive role at Rugby Australia.

Alongside the announcement, SANZAAR also announced Argentina Rugby Union (UAR) President, Marcelo Rodriguez, has replaced New Zealand’s Brent Impey, as its Chairman, in line with the SANZAAR agreement to rotate the chairman between the four member unions, South Africa, New Zealand, Australia, and Argentina, every 12 months.

Morris joined SANZAAR following senior leadership roles with the Queensland Reds, the Wallabies, and Rugby Australia, and in a statement, said he is confident SANZAAR could emerge from the challenges caused by COVID-19 in a strong position.

The statement advised “I am delighted to step into the role of CEO at the organisation and continue to work with the very dedicated and talented people we have in the sport.

“Of course, rugby and sport in general face many challenges due to the ongoing effects of the pandemic.

“That said I believe SANZAAR is in a strong position to move forward given the work already done to reformat our competitions and to streamline our cross-border operations.

“The aim now is to consolidate what Super Rugby will look like in the future, continue to work with World Rugby on a global rugby calendar that is fit for purpose in today’s sporting environment and to continue the success of The Rugby Championship that is the flagship of SANZAAR and one of the major drivers to our National Unions’ success at Rugby World Cup,” he said.

Speaking on his appointment as Chairman, Rodriguez noted “I would like to deeply thank the unions of South Africa, Australia and New Zealand, our partners in SANZAAR, for this recognition.

“It highlights that as a group we are committed to working together for the benefit of all our national unions, and in the continued pursuit of the growth of our sport globally.

“This appointment as SANZAAR Chairman stands as strong recognition of the UAR and Argentine rugby.

“Indeed, in recent times we have seen Argentina rugby grow stronger and produce some great performances and this appointment is a clear demonstration of the respect and international prestige achieved by Argentinean rugby all over the world.”

Image: Brendan Morris. Credit: SANZAAR.