Rod Lai Appointed as New Hong Kong China Rugby Chairman

Hong Kong China Rugby (HKCR) confirmed the election of Rod Lai as its new Chairman at the 70th Annual General Meeting, replacing departing Chairman Chris Brooke after his four years of dedicated service.

In a statement, HKCR said that Rod Lai will take up the role for a two-year term with immediate effect and will work with interim Chief Executive Officer Sarah Hooper, new Chief Commercial Officer James Irvine, and a new Board.

The union said they were “delighted to welcome Lai as its new Chairman. Hong Kong rugby has never had a bigger stage than the one ahead, and the Board and leadership team look forward to working together to build on the momentum already under way and unlock the next phase of its growth, making the next 12 months the most successful in HKCR’s history.”

Rod Lai said, “City RFC has been part of my life for over 20 years, and I have spent six of those years on the HKCR Board. I am excited to work closely with Sarah and the Board from day one to generate revenue, empower our clubs and grow the game across the Greater Bay Area, building a sustainable rugby ecosystem for Hong Kong.”

The new HKCR Board was also announced last week, and HKCR have also partnered with Global Elite Sports to look for a new CEO. The CEO will join at an important time for Hong Kong rugby, with the men’s team preparing for Rugby World Cup 2027, continued growth across the domestic game, and significant opportunities to further develop the commercial and international profile of HKCR and the Hong Kong Sevens.

Outgoing Independant Director Brett Fee said online, “It is time for new voices, perspectives and skill sets to help HKCR seize the opportunity of its historic qualification in the Men’s Rugby World Cup in Australia next year.

My sincere congratulations to the new chair Rod Lai, MBA, who is the first local to chair HKCR since the establishment of the HKRU 70 years ago. This is a significant moment for rugby in Hong Kong – well done, Rod! As a long-time player, administrator of a rugby club, and a 6-year veteran of the Board, Rod brings passion, drive and experience to the chair role – as well as deep links to the local community and the rugby administration in China.”

Plans are already in play for the 2027 Cathay/HSBC Hong Kong Sevens from 9-11 April, which are preceded by the Cathay/HSBC Hong Kong Sevens Long Lunch at Hong Kong Football Club on 6 November 2026.

HKCR added that details on their plans for the year ahead will be shared with Member Clubs, players, partners and the wider rugby community in the coming weeks.

Hong Kong China Rugby News 2026

• Hong Kong China Rugby Sees Independent Director Changes.
• Hong Kong China Rugby CEO James Farndon Leaves Role.
• Toby Booth Rejoins Hong Kong China Men’s XV Coaching Setup Along with S&C Coach Allan Ryan.
• Robbie Fergusson Leaves Hong Kong China 7s Programme.