Former England captain Bill Beaumont was elected the new World Rugby chairman on Wednesday.

The 64-year-old succeeds Bernard Lapasset, who has held the position since January 2008. He will be assisted by the newly elected vice-chairman, Argentinian Agustin Pichot. Both men were elected unopposed. 

'I am honoured to accept the mandate of council to serve as World Rugby chairman at what is an exciting and pivotal time for the sport,' Beaumont said in a press release. 'Rugby has experienced significant and rapid growth, which is a credit to Bernard Lapasset and his leadership over the past eight years. The sport is in excellent health and over the next four years there will be many great opportunities to further develop and grow the game.'

Beaumont also outlined five priorities for World Rugby to address during his tenure. 

'These priorities are continuing to protect players, preserving integrity, enhancing global competition, optimising partnerships and empowering and strengthening unions,' he said. 'I will nurture the roots of rugby, our fundamental values and financial security and will make rugby decisions for rugby reasons. As World Rugby chairman, I will work with unions over the next four years to deliver healthy, sustainable growth for the game we all love.'

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