John Jeffrey Withdraws from World Rugby Chairman Race

John Jeffrey has withdrawn from the race to become chairman of World Rugby after failing to secure the backing of the Scottish Rugby Union (SRU), leading to feelings of betrayal and disappointment. The former Scotland flanker, who was viewed as the favorite, resigned from multiple positions, including his role as president of the Six Nations, following this unexpected turn of events. Jeffrey's candidacy was undermined by internal politics within the SRU, which reportedly holds him responsible for financial losses and governance issues during his tenure as chairman of Scottish Rugby Limited from 2020 to 2023. His withdrawal clears the way for other candidates, including Brett Robinson from Australia and Andrea Rinaldo from Italy, as they prepare for the upcoming election. Jeffrey expressed his dismay, stating that being rejected by his own country was particularly painful and has been a major embarrassment for Scottish rugby. The situation highlights ongoing divisions within the SRU and raises questions about the future representation of Scotland in global rugby governance.