Ieuan Evans to leave Lions chair as search for independent successor begins

Ieuan Evans will step down as chair of the British and Irish Lions on 21 October, ending a term that began in 2022. BBC Sport reported that the former Wales captain is leaving as his term concludes, with the organisation searching for a successor before its inaugural women's tour to New Zealand next year.

In an announcement published on 18 October, the Lions confirmed that Evans will also leave their board. They said the next chair would be independent and that an appointment would be announced once recruitment is complete. No successor was named in the announcement, leaving the leadership change to be completed through that process.

Evans combined his chairmanship with the role of tour manager for the men's visit to Australia in 2025. The Lions won the series against the Wallabies under head coach Andy Farrell, according to BBC Sport. Reflecting on his tenure, Evans identified that tour's success and progress towards the women's team's first tour as particular sources of pride.

The Lions credited Evans with helping establish the women's project by chairing its initial feasibility study. His period in office also included the recruitment of independent directors to the board. Those developments formed part of the organisation's account of his work beyond the men's touring side, with preparations continuing for the 2027 trip to New Zealand.

His administrative service followed three Lions tours as a player: Australia in 1989, New Zealand in 1993 and South Africa in 1997. The Lions' player profile records six Test caps across 20 appearances and credits him with the decisive try in the third Test against Australia in 1989. He also played 72 times for Wales, captaining his country on 28 occasions, and won the Heineken Cup with Bath in 1998.

Lions chief executive Ben Calveley thanked Evans for his leadership and support, highlighting his contribution to the 2025 tour, preparations for the women's tour and changes to the organisation's governance. Evans, in turn, thanked his fellow directors, Calveley, staff, players, coaches, partners and supporters as he prepared to hand over the chairmanship.