V'landys steps down as Racing NSW boss to secure firmer grip on NRL

Peter V landys has resigned as chief executive of NSW Racing after 22 years at the helm. The decision allows him to assume the role of NRL executive chairman. The appointment could be announced today. V landys' tenure as Racing NSW CEO ends in November, coinciding with long-service leave. His resignation is a crucial step in his move towards a full-time role at the NRL, the most powerful position in rugby league since the Super League war.

Since becoming the ARL Commission chairman in 2019, V landys has emerged as a dominant figure in rugby league. However, this transition will further expand his influence, essentially replacing former NRL chief executive Andrew Abdo in this capacity while continuing as head of the commission. Andrew Abdo's resignation in May prompted V landys to reconsider his plans, stating that "Superman and Jesus added together" could not replace him.

Despite initial reluctance to speculate, V landys confirmed his intention to take a leave of absence from Racing NSW in July to focus on the NRL. The 64-year-old has gained approval from both clubs and states to undertake this new role. V landys, who previously served as chief executive of Racing NSW from 2004, led the industry through the equine influenza outbreak and oversaw the creation of the Everest in 2017.

He credits his team for transforming a struggling jurisdiction into a world-leading one, thanking them for their loyalty and hard work. In a statement, V landys expressed sadness about leaving racing but wished the industry ongoing success. Racing NSW chair Saranne Cooke affirmed V landys' status as the most effective and successful administrator in Australian sport, emphasizing his transformative impact on racing in NSW and the nation.