Former Wests Tigers chairman Lee Hagipantelis has strongly criticized the current leadership at the NRL club, revealing his intention to withdraw his $1 million sponsorship. Hagipantelis, who heads Brydens Lawyers, the major sponsor of the Wests Tigers, was ousted as chairman last season as part of a boardroom overhaul.
After a review of the club’s culture and governance, which led to the removal of the entire board including Hagipantelis and former CEO Justin Pascoe, Hagipantelis initially indicated Brydens Lawyers would continue its sponsorship. However, in a scathing letter obtained by News Corp, he suggested otherwise. News Corp journalist Phil Rothfield discussed the letter on Sky Sports Radio’s Big Sports Breakfast, revealing Hagipantelis’ frustrations.
Hagipantelis expressed disappointment in the way he was treated during the board’s removal and criticized interim CEO Shane Richardson. He described the review as a “sham” and labeled key stakeholders at the Tigers as “cowards.” Hagipantelis stated that while he continued his sponsorship despite the circumstances, he could no longer do so with individuals he did not respect involved in the club’s management. He expressed support for coach Benji Marshall and the players but feared the club’s success would be compromised under the current leadership.
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