Pete Russell to step down as CPL chief executive after 14-year stint – News Room Guyana
Fresh off a season that saw the Antigua & Barbuda Falcons lift their maiden trophy, the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) has announced that its long-standing chief executive officer, Pete Russell, is stepping back from his full-time role.
Russell, one of the key architects behind the tournament’s inception, has spent 14 years at the helm, helping transform the competition from an ambitious start-up into one of the global T20 circuit’s most vibrant and financially established properties.
Russell will remain in his position until a replacement is appointed, after which he will continue to support the board and executive team as part of the wider CPL group.
His departure comes at a time of significant commercial diversification for the league. Over the past 12 months, the CPL expanded to seven franchise teams and broadened its footprint beyond live event organisation into an integrated sports media brand.
The group recently launched its own production house, Live and Louder Productions, alongside a dedicated linear television channel (Rush Live & Louder), a proprietary streaming application, and an independent events division.
Paying tribute to Russell’s contribution, CPL chairman Richard Bevan thanked him for his “leadership, commitment, and contribution during his tenure as CEO.”
Denis O’Brien, the founder and owner of the CPL, emphasised how crucial Russell had been in orchestrating the league’s recent shift toward broader media assets.
“Pete has been a fantastic leader of CPL and has overseen its expansion into new areas, including media and events, over recent years,” O’Brien said.
“While we are naturally sad to see him step away from his current role as CEO, we are delighted that the business is poised for future growth and Pete will remain involved as part of the wider group.”
Reflecting on his decision, Russell pointed to the revival of cricket culture in the region as the league’s defining legacy. “I am incredibly proud of CPL’s growth and international standing,” Russell said.
“I believe its greatest achievement is in bringing fans back to cricket across the Caribbean and providing a platform for generations of young West Indian players to showcase their talent, express themselves on a global stage, and pursue their cricketing dreams.
“CPL reignited a passion for the game, fills stadiums with energy and excitement, and creates unforgettable memories for many people throughout the region and around the world. I want to thank the fans, the players, franchise owners, sponsors, broadcast partners, regional governments, and the dedicated CPL team. It has been the privilege of a lifetime to be part of this journey.” (Modified Press Release)
Source: NEW ROOMS SITE
