World Rugby Chairman Sir Bill Beaumont Receives Knighthood For Services to Rugby
Sir Bill Beaumont, the Chairman of World Rugby, has been knighted for his exceptional contributions to rugby in the New Year's Honours List.
World Rugby Chairman Sir Bill Beaumont has conveyed his gratitude, expressing feeling “honoured and humbled” for being bestowed with the Knight Grand Cross of the Order of the British Empire in recognition of his significant contributions to rugby on the global stage in the New Year’s Honours list by His Majesty The King. This prestigious honour acknowledges Beaumont’s lifelong dedication to enhancing rugby both on and off the field. This recognition follows his Knighthood in the New Year’s Honours list of 2018. The Knight Grand Cross represents the highest rank in the Most Excellent Order of The British Empire.
I am humbled and honoured to receive this accolade from His Majesty the King and would like to extend my congratulations to all those from the rugby family and beyond recopgnised on the New Year's Honours list…https://t.co/SFgoFzikng pic.twitter.com/9ISYWr8DEf
— Sir Bill Beaumont (@BillBeaumont) December 30, 2023
The acknowledgment of Sir Bill Beaumont’s contributions to rugby on the global stage with the Knight Grand Cross of the Order of the British Empire comes at a pivotal time for both him and the sport. Serving as World Rugby Chairman since 2016, he has prioritized making rugby accessible, relevant, and player welfare-focused. During his tenure, there has been substantial growth, especially among young people and women in emerging rugby nations, as well as the introduction of new and accessible formats reaching broader audiences. Despite challenges posed by the global pandemic, Beaumont has led transformative governance reforms, expanding inclusivity in decision-making bodies.
He has overseen successful Rugby World Cups, initiated reforms in the hosting model, and championed player welfare. His commitment to grassroots rugby, as well as initiatives for emerging nations, demonstrates a passion for making rugby universally accessible. Beaumont, a former player, captained England and the British and Irish Lions, contributing to his profound understanding of the sport. The Knight Grand Cross award symbolizes recognition not just for him but for the entire rugby community and their tireless efforts. Beaumont remains dedicated to advancing rugby’s safety, accessibility, and relevance for players and fans alike. His commitment to the sport is a testament to a lifelong connection, from player to administrator, making him a respected figure in the global rugby community.
