Shane Richardson’s six-month contract as interim CEO of the Wests Tigers is rapidly coming to an end and decisions behind the scenes are being made on whether to extend the legendary rugby league figure.
Richardson was appointed as interim CEO after a dramatic day at the club in December when the entire Tigers board were dismissed as well as former Chairman Lee Hagipantelis and former CEO Justin Pascoe following the results of a review into the club.
The Daily Telegraph’s Michael Carayannis revealed that Richardson is likely to remain in his position with some further changes to be made at board level.
“He’s been in discussions this week with the Wests Tigers about having that deal extended,” Carayannis said on SEN 1170 Breakfast.
“There was some thought that this would’ve been knocked over very quickly.
“It hasn't been done yet so there may be some resistance from the people that actually propelled Justin Pascoe and Lee Hagipantelis out of the club.
“The board no longer has significant power and there has been a shift.
“It’s not all clear cut as it once was that Richardson would be head of the Tigers long-term.
“There are some rumours about South Sydney having Richardson return as general manager of football which the Tigers are aware of.
“I haven’t heard of any other (candidates for Tigers CEO).
“It will be an interesting period because there’s a lot going on at the Wests Tigers at the moment.”
Carayannis said whoever does become Tigers CEO, their first priority will be to lock up the services of star prop Stefano Utoikamanu.
Utiokamanu has a bizarre clause in his contract which allows him to become a free agent if the Tigers fail to make finals in 2024 or if doesn’t represent NSW for at least two State of Origin clashes this season.
“Shane Richardson has been forthright in saying that he wants Stefano to be at the club long-term,” Carayannis said.
“The interesting clause in his contract will play out over the next few months.
“Richardson hasn’t tried to rush through this deal because he wants Stefano to see that the club is different.
“They haven’t even started negotiations yet which is an interesting tactic but the right one.
“When Richardson has his future settled at some point, he’ll try to fast track a deal for Utoikamanu.”
The Tigers travel to Bathurst in Round 7 to take on the Penrith Panthers.