Agustin Pichot Resigns From World Rugby Council
Agustin Pichot has resigned from the World Rugby Council after his defeat to Sir Bill Beaumont in the election for the post of Chairman of the organisation.
The former Argentina captain lost out to the incumbent Chairman Beaumont by 28 votes to 23. He had previously served as Beaumont’s Vice-Chairman for the past four years.
“The only reason I have been a part of World Rugby to this day, and which in turn is the same one that has moved me to run for President, is the conviction that World Rugby needs change,” said Pichot.
“But my proposal, which I fervently believe in, has not been chosen, and that is why I choose to step aside.
“I cannot conceive of occupying a place just for the sake of occupying it.”
The election saw Beaumont return to the role of Chairman, with French Rugby Federation (FFR) President Bernard Laport elected to the Vice-Chairman role previously held by Pichot.
Pichot had released plans to implement change within the organisation, with measures such as taking the British and Irish Lions on tours to North and South America forming part of his proposals.
During the election, he won the support of the SANZAAR nations of South Africa, New Zealand, Australia and Argentina, as well as other South American and Asian countries.
