Rugby/Wales: resignation of Steve Phillips, CEO of the WRU, accused of fostering a "toxic culture"

Steve Phillips is to resign as CEO of the Welsh Rugby Union, announced the Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) on 29/01/2023. Nigel Walker, performance director, has been appointed acting CEO pending the recruitment of a new chief executive.

This announcement follows the broadcast of a BBC Wales documentary about the Union on 23/01/2023. Through the testimonies of former WRU employees, the investigation highlights a "toxic culture" within the body. Charlotte Wathan, former director of women's rugby, and Amanda Blanc, former chair of the Professional Rugby Board Wales, describe misogynistic, sexist, racist and homophobic attitudes. Both women resigned from their positions in 2021 and 2022 respectively.

"No allegations were made against Steve Phillips in the recent BBC programme and he was not accused of any wrong doing," said the WRU. "I am on record already saying how much I hugely regret the feelings and emotions expressed recently by former members of staff," said Steve Phillips, who initially announced that he would not be stepping down.

• Ieuan Evans, chairman of WRU, has announced the…