Ieuan Evans will conclude his term as Chair of The British & Irish Lions on 21 October, bringing to a close four years in the role and an extraordinary association with the organisation as both a player and administrator.
Evans was appointed Chair in 2022 and has been in the role during a significant period for The British & Irish Lions, including the record-breaking 2025 Men's Tour to Australia, where he also served as Tour Manager, and preparations for the inaugural Lions Women's Tour to New Zealand in 2027.
The 2025 Tour was a landmark success both on and off the field, further strengthening the Lions' position as one of the most iconic teams in world sport.
Evans has also played a significant role in the development of the Lions Women's Tour, including chairing the initial feasibility study that helped lay the foundations for the historic inaugural Tour in 2027.
During his tenure, he has overseen an important period in the evolution of the Lions Board, including the recruitment of independent directors.
His departure as Chair will mark the conclusion of his time on the Lions Board, bringing an end to his outstanding contribution to the organisation.
Evans' time on the Board follows an exceptional playing career in the famous red jersey, during which he represented the Lions across three Tours - Australia in 1989, New Zealand in 1993 and South Africa in 1997 - establishing himself as one of the most celebrated Lions of his generation.
Ieuan Evans, MBE, Lion #616, said: "It has been an enormous privilege to serve as Chair of The British & Irish Lions. The Lions has played a hugely important part in my life, from the honour of representing the jersey as a player to helping shape its future as Chair.
"I am incredibly proud of what has been achieved over the past four years, particularly the success of the 2025 Tour, the progress made towards the first Lions Women's Tour and the strength of the organisation as it looks ahead to an exciting new chapter.
"I would like to thank my fellow Board members, the Lions CEO Ben Calveley and the staff, players, coaches, partners and our incredible supporters for their tremendous support."
Ben Calveley, CEO of The British & Irish Lions, added: "Ieuan has given an extraordinary amount to The British & Irish Lions over the years, both as a player and through his leadership as Chair. His infectious passion for the Lions and understanding of what makes this organisation so special has been evident throughout his time in the role.
"His contribution has been particularly significant during a period of real progress for the organisation, from the record-breaking success of the 2025 Tour to helping lay the foundations for the inaugural Lions Women's Tour, and strengthening the governance of the organisation.
"I am truly grateful for his guidance, encouragement and unwavering support over the past four years. It has been a real privilege to work alongside him during such an important period in the Lions' history.
"On behalf of everyone at The British & Irish Lions, I want to sincerely thank Ieuan for everything he has contributed to this organisation. He leaves with our enormous gratitude, respect and very best wishes for the future."
The British & Irish Lions will appoint an Independent Chair in due course, with a further announcement to be made upon conclusion of the recruitment process.
