Peter V’landys leaves Racing NSW to become NRL's inaugural executive chairman

After more than two decades at the helm of Racing NSW, Peter V’landys announced his resignation and will soon be unveiled as the NRL’s first executive chairman, a role created after Andrew Abdo left the chief executive post. V’landys will continue as chairman of the Australian Rugby League Commission, effectively combining the two top positions in the sport. Reports suggest his annual remuneration could reach $3 million, about twice what Abdo earned.

His departure follows a period of legal and political challenges for Racing NSW, though he is credited with delivering billions in new funding and boosting prize money. Graeme Hinton, the organisation’s chief operating officer, is set to succeed V’landys at Racing NSW. The transition raises questions about governance and the concentration of power within the NRL hierarchy.