British Olympic Association (BOA) statement regarding Director of Sport and Team GB Deputy Chef de Mission Sir Clive Woodward.
Sir Clive Woodward, BOA Director of Sport and Team GB Deputy Chef de Mission: “Since the Rugby Football Union announced its restructuring plan late last year, there has been considerable speculation that I might return to the RFU.
"With the full knowledge of Colin Moynihan, Chairman, and Andy Hunt, CEO, I have had informal conversations regarding the role of Performance Director with senior figures at the RFU. However, I have not participated in a formal interview for this position at any stage in the RFU process. From the outset I had made it clear to both Colin and Andy that I would only attend a formal interview with their full knowledge. I would like to express my thanks for their understanding over this situation and also for their considered views which have been greatly appreciated.
"In order to prevent any further speculation and in the interests of both the BOA and RFU I would like to formally confirm that I will not be attending any interviews for this position.
"I am totally committed to my role as Director of Sport at the British Olympic Association and Deputy Chef de Mission for Team GB in London 2012. We have an historic opportunity ahead, when more than 500 of Britain’s most accomplished Olympic athletes will represent Team GB, at home, in the London 2012 Games.
"May I wish the RFU all the best in its search to find the appropriate candidate for this very important role for English rugby going forward. I would also like to take this opportunity to wish Martin Johnson, his coaching team and all of his players every success, but especially for this year’s RWC in New Zealand which all rugby fans are so looking forward to.”
Lord Colin Moynihan, BOA Chairman: “Clive’s decision to forgo possible opportunities with the RFU and remain with the British Olympic Association is welcome news for Team GB.
"As we work to provide British athletes and their NGBs with the highest levels of service and support in connection with their participation in major international Games, the work Clive and his sport team are doing is critical. British athletes can be confident in knowing that Clive and his team are working in close partnership with performance directors, coaches and other leaders throughout British sport to find and deliver the crucial, difference-making innovations and services that will help underpin their continued success in the international arena.” Andy Hunt, BOA Chief Executive and Team GB Chef de Mission: “We are now in the critical phase of our planning and preparation for Team GB in London 2012, and I am delighted to know Clive will continue making important contributions to those efforts as a member of our Delegation Leadership Team and as our Director of Sport. Clive understands exactly what it takes to deliver under intense pressure. He has been successful in converting years of planning and preparation into success on the field of play. He is a highly respected voice in our preparation and I am proud to have him as a member of our team and as one of our Deputy Chefs de Mission.”