Rugby League European Federation general manager Chris Thair is to step down from his post on 3 April 2020. The former Wales Rugby League CEO was appointed in November 2018 and departs paying tribute to the RLEF board and its members.

“I’d like to put on record my thanks to the RLEF and it’s 40 member nations for their support and endeavours and wish them the very best for the future,” the former student international said. “The RLEF will continue to drive the growth of the sport, having just agreed its new long-term strategy and calendar.

“I’m looking forward to the 2021 Rugby League World Cup being staged in England with increased European representation, and I have no doubt the 2022 European Championships will be the best yet. There are some tremendously dedicated and talented people involved in international rugby league, not least the volunteers and players who remain its heartbeat.”

RLEF chair, Maurice Watkins, commented: “In his time as our general manager, Chris has been highly committed and we thank him for his efforts. His passion for the development of rugby league throughout the northern hemisphere has always shone through and we wish him all the very best in his future career.”