The Wests Tigers NRL club finds itself in tumultuous waters yet again as Lee Hagipantelis, the former chairman, has terminated the club’s $1 million sponsorship deal with Brydens Lawyers. This drastic decision comes in the wake of Hagipantelis’ abrupt dismissal in December 2023, following a shocking internal review that threw the club into disarray.
According to reports from Fox Sports, Hagipantelis conveyed the termination news through a scathing two-page letter addressed to the club. In this letter, obtained by News Corp, Hagipantelis didn’t mince words, labeling the review process a “sham” and launching pointed criticisms at the club’s new CEO, Shane Richardson. He even went so far as to brand key stakeholders as “cowards.”
The abrupt departure of Hagipantelis, who held the chairman position for four years, has not only left the club grappling with internal strife but has also cast a shadow of uncertainty over its future relationships, notably with major sponsor Brydens Lawyers, given Hagipantelis’ role as the firm’s principal.
“I find it most distasteful to contemplate the continuation of a relationship with Wests Tigers while these persons remain involved,” expressed Hagipantelis in his letter.
The termination of the $1 million sponsorship deal adds another layer of complexity to the already turbulent times for the Wests Tigers. However, amidst the turmoil, Hagipantelis extended his well wishes to the club’s future endeavors, expressing his continued support for key individuals within the organization.
“I wish Wests Tigers every success in the future. I will continue to wholeheartedly support Benji, the Football Department, the players, and the staff,” Hagipantelis concluded.
As the club navigates through this challenging period, questions loom large over its ability to secure alternative sponsorships and restore stability to its operations.