Syd Millar, a renowned figure in Irish and Lions rugby history, and the former chairman of the International Rugby Board (now known as World Rugby) from 2003 to 2007, has passed away at the age of 89.
Millar, an ex-prop for Ireland and the British and Irish Lions, also took on roles as a coach and manager during his illustrious career. He represented Ireland 37 times and played in nine Tests for the Lions over three tours.
As a coach, he led the Lions to a triumphant series victory against the Springboks in 1974, and six years later, managed the Lions’ South African tour.
Beyond his on-field achievements, Millar was the chairman of the International Rugby Board (IRB, later World Rugby) from 2003 to 2007. Hailing from Ballymena, he also managed the Ireland team at the 1987 Rugby World Cup.
Ballymena Rugby Club expressed their deep sorrow over Millar’s passing, calling him a “highly esteemed” figure. They extended their heartfelt sympathies to his children, Lesley, Peter, and Johnny, and to his extended family.
The Lions took to social media to honor Millar, stating, “Few individuals have contributed as significantly to the Lions and the sport as the legendary Syd Millar.”
A beloved figure at Ulster, where a path at Kingspan Stadium is named in his honor, Millar was a mainstay at his local club, Ballymena, for 22 years and also played for the Barbarians 10 times.
Millar’s international career spanned from 1958 to 1971, earning him 37 caps for Ireland. He retired from playing in 1972.
His administrative roles were as significant as his playing career. He served as president of the Ulster Rugby Union in 1985 and the Irish Rugby Football Union (IRFU) in 1995. He was also the Lions’ chairman from 1999 to 2002.
Millar joined the IRB council and became its vice-chairman in 2002. He assumed the role of interim chairman in 2003 following Vernon Pugh’s passing and was later elected as chairman. During his tenure, he oversaw the 2003 and 2007 World Cups, before Bernard Lapasset succeeded him.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Syd Millar Rugby
Who was Syd Millar?
Syd Millar was a legendary figure in Irish and Lions rugby, known for his roles as a player, coach, and administrator. He played as a prop for Ireland and the British and Irish Lions, later serving as a coach and manager for the Lions. Additionally, Millar was the chairman of the International Rugby Board (now World Rugby) from 2003 to 2007.
What are some of Syd Millar’s notable achievements in rugby?
Syd Millar earned 37 caps for Ireland and played in nine Lions Tests across three tours. He coached the Lions to a series win over the Springboks in 1974 and managed their tour to South Africa in 1980. Millar also played a significant administrative role in rugby, serving as chairman of the IRB and overseeing two Rugby World Cups.
How did Syd Millar contribute to the Irish and British and Irish Lions rugby teams?
Syd Millar contributed immensely to both teams, first as a player, where he represented Ireland 37 times and the Lions in nine Tests. As a coach and manager, he led the Lions to notable successes, including a series victory against the Springboks in 1974.
When did Syd Millar serve as the chairman of the International Rugby Board?
Syd Millar served as the chairman of the International Rugby Board, now known as World Rugby, from 2003 until 2007.
What roles did Syd Millar hold in rugby administration?
Beyond his playing and coaching career, Millar was deeply involved in rugby administration. He was the chairman of the International Rugby Board, president of the Ulster Rugby Union, president of the Irish Rugby Football Union, and chairman of the Lions.
What was Syd Millar’s legacy at Ballymena Rugby Club?
Syd Millar’s legacy at Ballymena Rugby Club is significant. He spent 22 years at the club, with a path at the club’s Kingspan Stadium named in his honor. The club expressed deep regret at his passing, acknowledging his esteemed status.
More about Syd Millar Rugby
- Syd Millar’s Rugby Career
- British and Irish Lions Achievements
- International Rugby Board Leadership
- Ballymena Rugby Club Tribute
- Irish Rugby Football Union Presidency
- Ulster Rugby Union Contributions
- Syd Millar’s Coaching Legacy
- Lions Tour Management by Millar
- Rugby World Cup Oversight
- Kingspan Stadium’s Syd Millar Pathway
5 comments
Not many people have had such a huge impact on rugby like Millar. His leadership at IRB was pivotal, especially during those World Cups. A great loss.
Wow, sad news about Syd Millar. A true giant in rugby, his legacy is just immense. He did so much for the sport, both on and off the field.
Heard about Syd’s passing, so sad. He really was a key figure in rugby, especially in Ireland. My thoughts are with his family.
this is a huge loss, Millar was a legend! Remember his time as a coach, simply brillant. Rugby world will surely miss him.
syd millar, what a man! his contribution to the Lions is unforgettable. A true icon of the sport, he will be greatly missed.