Former Chairman, Dr. Syd Millar passed away
2023.12.16
World Rugby has spearheaded the remembrances of Dr. Syd Millar CBE, the previous Chairman, who departed at the age of 89.
Recalled as one of the sport’s greatest statesmen, Millar chaired the International Rugby Board (IRB) from 2003 to 2007 and was instrumental in taking rugby to new heights internationally.
In addition to spearheading the game’s transformation, he oversaw the historic women’s Rugby World Cup in Canada in 2006, the first-ever contemporary men’s Rugby World Cup in Australia in 2003, and a record-breaking men’s Rugby World Cup in France in 2007.
In 1995, a pivotal year for the sport, Millar was elected President of the Irish Football Union (IRFU). He also served as Chairman of the British and Irish Lions from 1999 to 2002, and he distinguished the union on the IRB Council starting in 1992.
Prior to his achievements in the boardroom, Millar was among the best athletes, trainers, and managers of his day. A mainstay of Ulster Rugby and Ballymena Rugby Club, Millar made his debut for Ireland in 1958 and went on to win 37 caps. He also participated in three British and Irish Lions trips, in 1959, 1962, and 1966.
Later, from 1973 to 1975, he was Ireland’s coach. In 1974, he guided the Lions to an unbeaten tour of South Africa. In addition, he managed the Lions on the 1980 trip and managed Ireland during the first Rugby World Cup in 1987. He was extremely passionate about the competition, which would be crucial to his job as IRB Chairman.
Respected during the match, achievements in the boardroom and on the field brought well-earned honors. After being appointed an MBE in 2005, Millar was made a CBE in 2005. In addition, he received the coveted Légion d’honneur in 2007 following the men’s rugby World Cup in France, which changed the course of history, and was inducted into the International Rugby Hall of Fame (now the World Rugby Hall of Fame) in 2009.
The tributes from the worldwide rugby community were led by Sir Bill Beaumont, Chairman of World Rugby. “When I declare that Syd Millar was a titan of the game on a worldwide scale, I feel that I speak for my teammates and the whole rugby community.
“As influential in the boardroom as he was brilliant as a player, coach and manager, Syd was a natural leader and visionary, someone who cared deeply about the sport, its people, values and future.
“Syd led the sport through some of its most defining moments, driving forward the expansion and development of the sport beyond its heartlands. He was an inspiration to me, and many aspiring administrators, and he will be greatly missed.
“All our thoughts are with the Millar family and friends at this difficult time.”
@charith
