Andrew Abdo has stepped down as chief executive of the National Rugby League (NRL), clearing the way for Australian Rugby League Commission (ARLC) chairman Peter V'landys to assume greater control of the sport. Abdo will leave his role in 50 days to become CEO of Tennis Australia, a move that surprised many given the NRL's current growth trajectory.
At a press conference on Monday, V'landys opened with a joke about Abdo joining the One Nation party before confirming the departure. Abdo described it as an 'emotional day' and said rugby league was 'part of my DNA'. He expressed optimism about the sport's future, stating 'rugby league is only just getting started on its growth potential'.
Abdo's exit comes as the NRL approaches key milestones, including expansion into Papua New Guinea and Perth, a new broadcast deal, and the growth of the women's game. V'landys, known for his blunt style, said the timing was 'perfect for us to get the best broadcast deal ever'. He also joked about offering Abdo 'Manly and Papua New Guinea' as alternatives to the Tennis Australia role.
Abdo, who became CEO in 2020, was often seen as the straight man to V'landys' more flamboyant approach. His departure leaves V'landys as the dominant figure in rugby league administration as the sport seeks to capitalise on its recent momentum.
