Wales great Evans to leave role as Lions chairman

Ieuan Evans will step down as chair of the British and Irish Lions on Wednesday, ending a tenure that began in 2022. The former Wales captain, who featured on Lions tours to Australia in 1989, New Zealand in 1993 and South Africa in 1997, is concluding his four‑year term.

Evans, now 62, was the tour manager for the men’s side last year when the Lions secured a series win over the Wallabies under Andy Farrell. He also scored the decisive try in the third Test of the 1989 Australian tour, a moment that helped clinch the series.

The organization has already begun looking for a successor ahead of the inaugural Lions Women’s tour to New Zealand scheduled for next year. “I am incredibly proud of what has been achieved over the past four years, particularly the success of the 2025 tour, the progress made towards the first Lions Women’s tour and the strength of the organisation as it looks ahead to an exciting new chapter,” Evans said.

During his chairmanship, Evans oversaw governance reforms, including the addition of independent directors to the board. Lions chief executive Ben Calveley praised his passion, noting that “his infectious passion for the Lions and understanding of what makes this organisation so special has been evident throughout his time in the role.”