Welsh Rugby Union CEO Abi Tierney has been diagnosed with cancer
A statement from the WRU confirmed that Tierney will be stepping away from her duties at the business from August 22 to undergo treatment.
In a statement, she said: 'This has not been an easy decision, but it is one I must make to focus fully on my health and recovery.
'I am grateful for the support I have already received from my family, friends, and colleagues, and I am confident in the team's ability to continue our work during my absence.
'I kindly ask for understanding and privacy during this time.'
Tierney will continue to fulfil her role until the end of next week as the WRU prepares to launch its formal consultation over a complete restructuring of the professional game.
Yesterday, Tierney's executive team took their proposals to the WRU Board regarding what the landscape of rugby in Wales should look like moving forward.
Next week, the proposals are due to be made public, with key stakeholders - namely clubs, players, supporters groups and sponsors - then having an opportunity to voice their opinions.
Tierney will stay on to see those proposals go public before stepping away.
WRU chair Richard Collier-Keywood added: 'I, together with the whole of the Board and everyone involved with Welsh rugby wish Abi well over this period and the WRU is committed to supporting her during this time.
'In my role as Chair, I will continue to have overall responsibility for the WRU and in order to provide cover and give Abi the space she needs, will be more involved in the immediate future.
'Abi and the Board have recruited a strong executive team which will continue to lead the WRU on a day-to-day basis, supported by Alison Thorne.
'The most important topic on our agenda right now is the consultation on the future of elite rugby in Wales.
This will be led by our Director of Rugby and Elite Performance, Dave Reddin, as a member of the executive and I will take overall responsibility for its successful delivery, working closely with Board members including Malcolm Wall as Chair of the Professional Rugby Board, Amanda Bennett who leads at Board level on our Women's game and Andrew Williams.'
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