Professor Dame Farah Palmer joins World Rugby Council

The New Zealand Rugby (NZR) Board has confirmed Professor Dame Farah Palmer as its third representative on the World Rugby Council.

A former Black Ferns captain and three-time Rugby World Cup champion, Dame Farah brings extensive governance and rugby experience. She was an NZR Board member between 2016 and 2024 and was a member of the New Zealand Māori Rugby Board for 17 years. Dame Farah replaces Dr. Deb Robinson who has served on the World Rugby Council since 2018.

NZR Chair David Kirk said,

“Dame Farah’s contribution to rugby in New Zealand and internationally has been exceptional, both on and off the field. She combines integrity and leadership and will be a strong advocate for the growth of the game worldwide.”

Kirk added,

“On behalf of the board I would like to thank Dr. Deb Robinson for her excellent contribution to the work of the World Rugby Council, in particular as Chair of the Anti-Doping Advisory Committee.”
Dame Farah joins NZR Board member Greg Barclay and Bart Campbell as NZR’s representatives on the World Rugby Council. Her appointment will see New Zealand continue to play a leading role in growing a profitable and sustainable global game.