Tommy Martin: Philip Browne’s legacy highlights what Fifa and Gianni Infantino are getting wrong
IRFU Chief Executive Philip Browne following a meeting with Minister for Health Simon Harris at the Department of Health in Dublin. Photo by Stephen McCarthy/Sportsfile
The sad passing of Philip Browne this week reminded us of the greatest talent that a sports administrator can have. The former IRFU chief executive, who served as Irish rugby’s head man for 23 years until his retirement in 2021, was, famously, famous for not being famous.
A blazered contemporary for much of John Delaney’s showbiz notoriety as FAI CEO, critics of Irish soccer’s controversial chief would often point to his rugby equivalent and ask, rhetorically, if anyone knew who the IRFU chief executive was. Exactly, they would add, when greeted with blank faces.
