New Chair of RL Commercial Appointed

Nigel Wood has been named the new Chair of Rugby League Commercial, succeeding Frank Slevin, who is stepping down after three years in the role.

The appointment, endorsed by both the Rugby Football League (RFL) and Super League Europe, adds to Wood’s current position as interim RFL Chair, where he is leading a strategic review of the sport due to be presented to clubs next month.

A highly experienced figure in rugby league administration, Wood joined the RFL in 2001 as Finance Director and went on to serve as Chief Executive before moving on in 2018 to lead the Rugby League International Federation.

In a statement, Wood said he was “pleased to assist the sport at this pivotal moment” and stressed the importance of unifying the sport’s central operations.

“Stakeholders have concluded there are obvious advantages in simplifying the sport’s central administration,” he said.

“RL Commercial has delivered impressive successes, with growing attendances, increasing viewership, and anticipation for this year’s Ashes series – with two Tests already sold out.”

Wood also signalled his optimism about rugby league’s future:

“I am convinced that rugby league is on an upward trajectory.”

Wood previously chaired Bradford Bulls and is widely seen as a steady and influential voice in shaping the sport’s commercial and structural direction.