Scotland rugby legend John Jeffrey has expressed feelings of being “hurt, bitter, and betrayed” after ending his bid to become the chairman of World Rugby. The former flanker, currently the vice-chairman of World Rugby, was widely seen as the frontrunner to replace Sir Bill Beaumont in November. However, Jeffrey was informed that his own union, Scottish Rugby, would not support his candidacy.
Jeffrey, who served as chairman of the Scottish Rugby Limited Board from 2020 to 2023, was told that aspects of his performance in that role were the reasons for the decision. He voiced his frustration, telling BBC Sport Scotland, “To be beaten by your own country really, really hurts.”
The 65-year-old, who was part of Scotland’s 1990 Grand Slam-winning team, expressed his shock, saying the situation has caused others to mock Scotland for their handling of his candidacy. He added that while he would have accepted defeat to candidates from other countries like Italy, France, or Australia, losing the support of his own nation “beggars belief.”
Jeffrey, who has been involved in rugby administration since 2010, will now step down from his roles as president of the Six Nations, an executive board member, council member, and vice-chairman of World Rugby. He plans to retire from all rugby union administration and return to his farm in Kelso.
With Jeffrey’s withdrawal, the race for the chairmanship of World Rugby is now between Abdelatif Benazzi (France), Brett Robinson (Australia), and Andrea Rinaldo (Italy). Beaumont is stepping down after two terms, with the vote for his successor set for later this year.
Reflecting on his chances, Jeffrey believed he was in a strong position to win and could have made a positive impact for the game in Scotland. He lamented the missed opportunity for Scottish Rugby and the potential damage caused by internal politics.
