Pete Russell will step down as chief executive officer of the Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League (CPL) after 14 years leading the regional cricket tournament.

The CPL said Russell will remain in the role until a successor is appointed and will continue supporting the Board and leadership team during the transition.

Russell has overseen the tournament’s growth since becoming CEO, including its expansion to seven franchise teams and into areas such as media and events.

CPL Chairman Richard Bevan OBE thanked Russell for his contribution, praising his leadership and commitment to the tournament.

“On behalf of the Board and everyone across CPL, I would like to extend my sincere thanks to Pete for his leadership, commitment, and contribution during his tenure as CEO,” Bevan stated.

Denis O’Brien, owner and founding investor of CPL, also credited Russell with helping expand the business into new areas and said he would remain involved with the wider group.

“Pete has been a fantastic leader of CPL and overseen its expansion into new areas including Media and Events over recent years. 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,” O’Brien said.

Russell said he was proud of the CPL’s growth and international standing, but highlighted its impact on cricket in the Caribbean as one of its most important achievements.

“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,” Russell said.

He thanked CPL fans, players, franchise owners, sponsors, broadcast partners, regional governments and the tournament’s staff for their support throughout his tenure.

“It has been the privilege of a lifetime to be part of this journey,” Russell said.

The CPL said it remains focused on the future of the tournament as it continues to operate as a seven-team franchise competition.