Ben Ikin quits as QRL boss on eve of State of Origin series in surprise career move
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Ben Ikin has resigned as chief executive officer of Queensland Rugby League in a shock move on the eve of the State of Origin series.
The former Maroons playmaker will finish up at the end of July, once the series is complete. He will leave the rugby league industry to continue his career after taking a new job, a QRL statement revealed.
"Ben's leadership has placed the QRL in a very strong position in the sporting landscape and our on-going strategies and programs are well advanced," QRL chair Brian Canavan said in the statement.
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Ikin said he had "thoroughly enjoyed" working at the QRL since taking up the CEO role in May 2023.
"I've met so many great people and created some incredible memories," Ikin said.
"I leave feeling very grateful."
Billy Slater and Ben Ikin. Getty
His resignation comes at an intriguing time given coach Billy Slater will be off contract at the end of this year.
The revelation Ikin will leave rugby league ends speculation of a move to the Perth Bears, who will join the NRL as its 18th franchise in 2027.
Ikin played 87 of his 150 first-grade games for the Bears and it would have been hailed as a major coup if the WA-based club had snared his signature.
Ikin served as head of football operations at the Broncos during Kevin Walters' reign as coach, playing a key role in Brisbane's rise from the lowly rungs of the ladder.
He left his high-profile role as a co-host of Fox League's NRL 360 to become Brisbane's football boss.
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The QRL statement applauded Ikin's work as CEO.
"Ben has led a range of key strategic initiatives, strengthening the game across Queensland and advancing the organisation's long-term priorities," the statement said.
"He has positioned the QRL as a leading sporting organisation in the state."
The Origin series will kick off at Sydney's Accor Stadium on May 27.
The Maroons are the defending champions, having won last year's decider 24-12.
