Australia’s premier rugby league competition the National Rugby League (NRL) has announced its CEO Todd Greenberg has officially stepped down from the role amidst the COVID-19 crisis.

Andrew Abdo has been appointed interim CEO until a replacement has been found as the league faces financial difficulties due to the coronavirus outbreak halting its campaign. 

Greenberg stated: “It has been my great honour and privilege to be the CEO of the NRL for the last 4 years. Despite the variety of challenges and pressures I have loved every single minute of the journey. Our growth over the last 4 years has been extraordinary & I am very proud of my contribution to the game.

“I am indebted to the game for the variety of opportunities and experiences that have been provided to my family and I, and we leave with many great memories and life long friendships.”

The competition has endured massive repercussions due to the virus, with Greenberg stating that players should consider taking pay-cuts in order to stabilise its clubs. 

Moreover, the NRL has also held talks with its TV broadcasters, Nine Network and Fox Sports, possibly regarding how the league’s season suspension will affect revenue.

The Australian Rugby League Commission’s (ARLC) Chairman Peter V’landys added: “The role of Chief Executive of the NRL is one of the most challenging and difficult roles in Australian sport, with a diversity of passionate stakeholders. ARLC thanks Todd for his contribution to the game over the last 7 years and as Chief Executive for the last four years”.

Greenberg’s temporary successor Abdo has been NRL’s Chief Commercial Officer for over six years. It is expected that once a successor has been appointed, he will return to the role.

The news follows last month’s announcement that the firm had a $40m recovery plan, providing its clubs with $2.5m each, in order to limit the damages caused by COVID-19.

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