Seán Brassil named as IRFU general counsel
Irish rugby’s governing body has appointed Seán Brassil as general counsel (GC).
The Irish Rugby Football Union (IRFU) described the role as “a key position within the union’s senior leadership team”.
The body said that Brassil brought extensive legal expertise and a deep understanding of sports law to his new role.
Professional contracts
He first joined the IRFU in 2015, having previously practised as a barrister, and has been working in the IRFU’s legal department.
Brassil was responsible for developing the legal framework for the IRFU’s first collective agreement for professional players in 2017.
He has also advised on the introduction of professional contracts for female players and led negotiations for the newly established Nations Championship tournament.
In his new role, Brassil will lead the IRFU’s legal function, advising its leadership and board on strategic legal issues.
‘Deep commitment’ to game
IRFU chief executive Kevin Potts said that the new GC had been central to some of its most important commercial and regulatory work in recent years.
“His expertise and deep commitment to the game make him exceptionally well-placed to lead the IRFU’s legal team as we pursue our strategic ambitions for Irish rugby,” he added.
Seán Brassil said that his focus would be on ensuring that the union maintained the highest standards of governance, while capitalising on the commercial opportunities ahead.