London: Rugby World Cup winner Sir Clive Woodward announced on Thursday that he has left his role as the British Olympic Association’s director of sport.
Woodward, who will retain an ambassadorial role and his seat on the International Olympic Committee’s entourage commission, has opted to quit after six years in the job to concentrate on his media and speaking commitments.
His position had reportedly been under threat after a restructuring programme was agreed last month by the BOA board.
“I have enjoyed being a part of Team GB enormously,” Woodward said in a statement.
“To have been involved in three Olympic Games, Beijing 2008, Vancouver 2010 and especially London 2012, and chef de mission for the 1st Youth Winter Games in Innsbruck this year, has been an amazing experience.
“The challenge of delivering a home Olympic Games to our largest ever Olympic team has been exhilarating and I would like to congratulate everyone concerned on the best Olympic performance of a host nation in the modern Games era.
“Post London 2012 is the right time for me to leave the BOA, which is now taking a new direction following a home Games and I wish them all well in the future.”
Woodward, who coached England’s rugby union team to victory at the 2003 World Cup, added: “I am also delighted to accept a role as a Team GB Ambassador, this along with my position on the IOC entourage commission means that I will be staying in close contact with the Olympic world.
“I will now be concentrating on my coaching, corporate speaking, media and other business interests.”
