Women’s group rips RFL coup

BY JOHN DAVIDSON

Exclusive: An open letter has been circulated across the RFL and the sport criticising the attempt to overthrow the leadership of the governing body.

As has been reported last month, a number of clubs have been plotting for some time to oust RFL director Sandy Lindsay and chairman Simon Johnson. Change at board level at RL Commercial has already taken place, with chairman Frank Slevin announcing his intention to depart and independent directors Anna Bayley-Chanduvi and Jonathan Murphy stepping down.

Lindsay resigned on Friday while it has been reported today by League Express that chair Johnson may also be on the verge of quitting.

This letter, purporting to be from “Women of the RFL and RL Commercial”, was received by rugbyleaguehub.com Long Reads and other media outlets. It has been confirmed by several sources today that it has been sent to numerous senior figures within the RFL.

The letter reads (in part):

“We, as a group of women who represent the RFL and RL Commercial, are reaching out to express our profound concern regarding the possible reinstatement of several former senior men into leadership roles within our sport. If these rumours are accurate, we fear their return could severely undermine the significant progress made in advancing the women’s game, our careers, and the inclusive workplace culture we have tirelessly built.

It is our opinion that we have witnessed a pattern of misogyny, bullying, and dismissive behaviour toward women, female athletes, and the development of the women’s game from these individuals. If these rumours are realised, we are prepared to take collective action and publicly share our experiences. Over time, we have gathered extensive evidence of inappropriate behaviour, including misogynistic comments and demeaning actions by a small group of men within the wider sport—behaviour that has no place in our future…

…Additionally, we have observed representatives of the sport publicly berating and belittling women, perpetuating a culture of disrespect and inequality. These actions undermine the inclusive environment we have worked diligently to create for all staff and athletes. 

Despite the significant strides achieved in fostering a safe, supportive, and inclusive workplace, these developments jeopardise our progress and risk reintroducing a culture of micro-aggressions, belittlement, and misogyny.

We are also deeply concerned about the potential gender-based criticism directed at what was, the RFLs predominantly female board. 

These individuals have unfairly labelled these board members as inefficient based solely on gender. The departures of esteemed female leaders such as Sandy Lindsay and Anna Chanduvi, coupled with fears that Simon Johnson—a key advocate for women in the sport—may face unwarranted opposition, signal a potential regression toward aggressive, male-dominated leadership. Such a shift would erode the diversity essential for the sport’s growth and success.

Furthermore, we have endured harmful remarks from certain individuals, including those rumoured to return, who trivialise the value of the women’s game and question the importance of its future investment. These outdated attitudes threaten the sustainability and development of women’s rugby league at all levels—from grassroots to elite performance through to administration. 

As women in a traditionally male-dominated sport, we have been heartened by the transformative changes of the past two years following new and progressive leadership. Previous unchecked behaviours have been confronted, and women’s voices have gained prominence. However, the potential return of these individuals fills us with apprehension, as it risks undoing this progress and destabilising the supportive environment we currently find ourselves in. 

In light of these challenges, we are reaching out to you—as leaders and representatives across sports with a voice, for guidance on forming a united front. Together, we must counter these harmful behaviours and safeguard rugby league as a sport that is inclusive, equitable, and thriving for all.

We remain steadfast in our commitment to progress, protecting the future of women within the whole game of rugby league, and achieving true equality within the sport. Your support at this critical juncture is invaluable.

Sincerely,  

The Women of the RFL and RL Commercial”

The RFL declined to comment when approached by rugbyleaguehub.com Long Reads. 

An RFL spokesperson said: “We do have whistleblowing procedures, and confidentiality is part of that process.”