DUBLIN — Brett Robinson, a former rugby back-row forward from Australia, has made history by being elected as the inaugural non-European chairman of World Rugby, the organization that oversees the sport globally.

At 54 years old, Robinson secured his position by outperforming contenders Abdelatif Benazzi and Andrea Rinaldo during the voting process held on Thursday. He will replace Bill Beaumont in this prominent role.

Robinson’s election came after two rounds of voting conducted at the World Rugby council meeting in Dublin, where he was chosen to serve a four-year term. Importantly, there is also the option for him to seek re-election in 2028.

Having been a member of World Rugby’s executive board since 2016, Robinson’s appointment signifies a degree of stability as the sport approaches a period of increased attention for Australian rugby.

In the coming months, Australia will be in the rugby limelight as it prepares to host the British and Irish Lions tour next year, followed by the men’s Rugby World Cup, which is set to take place in Australia in 2027.