Former World Rugby Chairman Sir Bill Beaumont has today been given Japan’s highest honour, The Grand Cordon of the Order of the Rising Sun.
Beaumont was the World Rugby Chairman who oversaw the phenomenally successful Men’s Rugby World Cup 2019 hosted in Japan. The tournament, won by South Africa, proved a pivotal moment for Japanese rugby and the global game, with huge crowds supporting the tournament, cementing a love for the game in Japan which is continuing to grow.
Previous recipients of the Grand Cordon of the Order of the Rising Son include Microsoft founder Bill Gates, former Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard and current Secretary General of the United Nations Antonio Guterres. Beaumont received the award at a special Commendation Ceremony at the Japanese Embassy in London.
Speaking about his award, Beaumont said: “To receive this award is a truly great honour and I am very humbled by this gesture from the Japanese people. Rugby World Cup 2019 was an unforgettable experience for all who were there and I am proud to have played a small part in ensuring rugby continues to flourish in such a great country.
“Six years on, the memories shine through for me and many fans in Japan and around the world. I would like to pay tribute to all who made the tournament such a success, but especially the volunteers, fans and Japanese people.”
