Leonard takes Lions by the reins for South Africa

Former England great Jason Leonard has been appointed chairman of the British & Irish Lions.

The former Lion, England international and past RFU president Leonard will replace Tom Grace as chairman of the Lions’ board with immediate effect.

Three times a Lions tourist (in 1993, 1997 and 2001), Leonard will bring the perspective of both a player and an administrator during his tenure as the organisation plans for the team’s tour to South Africa in 2021.

Leonard, a World Cup winner with England in 2003, said: “I am honoured to be asked to be the chairman of the British & Irish Lions and I look forward to working with my fellow board members, former Lions and the executive team to make the 2021 Lions Tour to South Africa a success on and off the pitch.

“I am excited to build on the

0 Jason Leonard: Honoured.

great work done by my predecessor Tom Grace and would like to thank him for his guidance and dedication over the last number of years.”

British & Irish Lions’ managing director Ben Calveley said: “His huge experience as a winning Lion, respected globally as one of the greats of the game, coupled with his business acumen will provide us with the insight required to organise a successful Tour to South Africa.”

Leonard made history with his country in a prolonged 14-year career, claiming a quartet of Grand Slams alongside his World Cup success.