Director of Rugby Dai Young leaves Cardiff

Cardiff Rugby have confirmed that director of rugby Dai Young has departed from his role despite clearing an investigation into claims of bullying.

Young, who has played 51 Tests for Wales and three caps for the British and Irish Lions rejoined the club as a head coach for the second time in 2021. He was suspended from his position in April pending an investigation over allegations of bullying.

Nevertheless, he was cleared of the allegations after the barrister concluded that there was insufficient evidence.

Despite the clearance of allegations, the recent event has strained the relation with the club which has resulted in Young leaving the club ending a three-decade association with them.

"As has been widely reported in the media, on 20 April 2023, Dai Young was suspended from his role as director of rugby by Cardiff Rugby following allegations of bullying, which he categorically denied," read a statement from the club.

"Given the nature of these allegations and mindful of its duty of care to all employees, Cardiff Rugby commissioned a barrister to carry out an independent investigation.

"Following a thorough process, the barrister concluded that there was insufficient evidence to support the allegations and that no further action should be taken in relation to them.

"Unfortunately, this process has caused strain on the working relationship between Cardiff Rugby and Dai Young.

"In the circumstances, regrettably, it has been mutually agreed by the parties to terminate Dai's employment contract in accordance with terms within that allow for early termination.

"Cardiff Rugby would like to thank Dai for his latest contribution to the club during the last two years, which culminated in the club finishing as the highest-placed Welsh club in the United Rugby Championship, which secured a return to the European Champions Cup. We wish Dai the very best with whatever the future holds for him.

"Work will now begin to appoint a successor and coaching team at the Arms Park with 14 weeks still remaining until the 2023-24 season kicks off."