Nigel Wood has announced he's to retire as chief executive of International Rugby League at the end this year after almost twenty years on the executive.
He previously served as chairman and vice-chairman of the IRL board and will also leave his seat on the executive committee of the upcoming World Cup, which is due to be staged in England in 2021.
"It has been the privilege of my life to serve the cause of international rugby league over the past 18 years," Wood said of his decision to retire.
"I'm proud of the growth and diversification of international rugby league since 2000 and I am looking forward to watching the most inclusive World Cup next year, when men, women and wheelchair players will compete on an equal basis.
"International rugby league represents the greatest opportunity rugby league has to move to the next level and I know there are some exciting plans ahead.
"I would like to thank and pay tribute to the many friends and colleagues around the world who have built international rugby league on the back of passion, commitment and relentless energy, and they will continue to help it grow and thrive.
"I wish them every success in the world."
