Abi Tierney will take a step away from her role as Chief Executive of the Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) after being diagnosed with cancer.

The WRU have added that Tierney will be undergoing treatment from the 22nd of August, with no return date confirmed.

“This has not been an easy decision, but it is one I must make to focus fully on my health and recovery,” Tierney said in a statement.

“I am grateful for the support I have already received from my family, friends, and colleagues, and I am confident in the team’s ability to continue our work during my absence.

“I kindly ask for understanding and privacy during this time.”

Tierney became CEO of the WRU in January 2024, and has overseen a period of immense uncertainty – both on and off the pitch – in Welsh rugby.

Richard Collier-Keywood, Chair of the WRU, has confirmed that he will be “more involved” in the immediate future of the Union.

Collier-Keywood added: “Everyone involved with Welsh rugby wish Abi well over this period and the WRU is committed to supporting her during this time.

“In my role as chair, I will continue to have overall responsibility for the WRU and in order to provide cover and give Abi the space she needs, will be more involved in the immediate future.

“Abi and the board have recruited a strong executive team which will continue to lead the WRU on a day-to-day basis.”

With the WRU’s consultation period about the future of the domestic game in Wales now underway, Collier-Keywood and Dave Reddin – Director of Rugby and Elite Performance – will now oversee the process.

“The most important topic on our agenda right now is the consultation on the future of elite rugby in Wales,” said Collier-Keywood.

“This will be led by Dave Reddin, as a member of the executive, and I will take overall responsibility for its successful delivery.

“We will be working closely with board members including Malcolm Wall as chair of the Professional Rugby Board, Amanda Bennett who leads at board level on our women’s game and Andrew Williams.”

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