Hong Kong China Rugby CEO James Farndon Leaves Role

Hong Kong China Rugby (HKCR) announced on 5 August 2026 that its Chief Executive (CEO), James Farndon, has stepped down from his role to “pursue other opportunities”, with current Chief Operating Officer and Chief Financial Officer Sarah Hooper taking the mantle as interim CEO.

HKCR Chairman Chris Brooke thanked James Farndon for his service since joining the organisation in June 2024 via an online message on the HKCR website.

Mr Brooke said, “During his time as CEO, James led the team at HKCR to deliver two successful Hong Kong Sevens tournaments, including the demanding move to the new Kai Tak Stadium, as well as the Rugby Sevens tournament associated with the National Games in November 2025.

He also co-ordinated the successful bid by Hong Kong China Rugby to host the World Rugby WXV 3 Tournament in Hong Kong in September this year and has been a strong supporter of the HKCR LIFT women’s leadership development programme.”

Photo Credit: 2025 – HKCR – Officials at the Kai Tak Stadium main tour Mr James Farndon, Chief Executive Officer of Hong Kong China Rugby (second from left)

Brooke added of the departed CEO, “During his tenure, James also oversaw the signing of strategic Memoranda of Understanding with the Chinese Rugby Football Association and the Japan Rugby Football Union. He also played a key role in shaping the professional team, preparing the Hong Kong China Men’s XV squad for the Rugby World Cup in Australia in 2027.”

It is our understanding (and TBC), that Mr Brooke’s tenure as Chairman could also be coming to an end in 2026, so the leadership group at HKCR is seeing significant change heading into an important time for the union.

Hong Kong China added, “Planning relating to the process associated with the identification of a permanent successor is underway, and further details will be communicated in due course.”

HKCR also recently lost the services of 7s Coach Robbie Fergusson, who has been appointed Head Coach of Glasgow Warriors Women and will also support Scotland Women in the role of assistant coach with the national team for the WXV Global Series in 2026.

You can read more from our interview with James Farndon when he first entered the role at the end of 2024.

Hong Kong China Rugby Hiring Chief Commercial Officer (CCO)

HKCR are advertising for the post of CCO and said via online posts. “With the Cathay/HSBC Hong Kong Sevens, growing domestic and community programmes, and Hong Kong China’s Men’s XVs qualification for Rugby World Cup 2027, HKCR is entering an exciting period of growth and opportunity.

We’re seeking an exceptional commercial leader to drive sustainable revenue growth, build strategic partnerships and unlock new opportunities across sponsorship, hospitality, ticketing, digital, merchandise and more.

This is a unique opportunity to help shape the future of rugby in Hong Kong and establish HKCR as one of Asia’s leading commercial sporting properties.”

Hong Kong China News

• Robbie Fergusson Leaves Hong Kong China 7s Programme.
• Mitsubishi Electric Europe B.V. Extends Support to 2026 WXV Global Series – Fixtures Confirmed.
• Asian Games 2026 Rugby 7s Pools & Teams.
• Asia Rugby 7s 2026 National Team Tournament Dates & Venues Guide.