Salford RLFC have named former chairman Dr John Wilkinson OBE as the club’s president.
The 81-year-old, who is affectionately still known to generations of supporters simply as ‘Chairman’ has returned to the club more than 13 years after he handed control to racehorse owner Marwan Koukash.
He served in that post for more than 31 years from 1982 until 2013, helping guide and protect the club through some of the most challenging periods in its history. The 81-year-old has become the first president since the club reformed following the liquidation of Salford Red Devils in December 2025.
A Salford RLFC spokesperson stated: “Throughout his time as Chairman, John became known not only for his leadership and resilience, but for the personal relationships he built with players, supporters, staff and the wider Salford community.
“A proud Salford man and passionate ambassador for the city, he remained a constant presence through both the highs and lows of the Club’s journey, always placing people, loyalty and community at the heart of everything he did.”
Dr Wilkinson left school at 15 without any qualifications but went on to build a successful welding business empire and served as a trustee for several local charities.
In 2001, he was awarded an OBE for Services to the City of Salford in recognition of his dedication to the city, its people and local enterprise.
He was also awarded an honorary Doctor of Letters in 2010 by the University of Salford for his outstanding contribution to business, enterprise and his lifelong loyalty to Salford.
Dr Wilkinson was the longest-serving Rugby League chairman when he stepped down in 2013.
Even away from the day-to-day running of the Club in recent years, Dr Wilkinson has continued to support the club through sponsorship, hospitality and as a fan.
“The appointment as President recognises not only his extraordinary service to Salford RLFC, but also the respect and affection in which he is held by generations of supporters and the wider Salford community,” the spokesperson added.
Dr John Wilkinson OBE said it was an “honour” to accept the role of President of Salford RLFC.
He added: “This Club has been a huge part of my life for over 40 years and I remain immensely proud of its history, its supporters and the place it holds within the city.
“Salford has always been about people. The friendships, the supporters and the sense of community around this Club are what make it special and why it has always meant so much to me.
“I have always believed in this Club and I still do. While there is a long road ahead, I know the passion and determination are there to bring success back to Salford again.
“I would like to thank the Board for this recognition and I look forward to supporting the Club as it begins this new chapter.”
Malcolm Crompton, Managing Director of Salford RLFC, said: “John’s contribution to rugby league in Salford cannot be overstated. For more than 35 years, he provided stability, leadership and unwavering support for the Club during some very difficult times.
“I have known John personally for more than 25 years and have seen first-hand the care, warmth and commitment he has always shown towards Salford RLFC and the people around it. His connection to this Club has never weakened.
“John has always been someone who valued people first. Whether it was supporters, players, staff or sponsors, he always made time for everyone and that is a huge part of why he is held in such high regard.
“Appointing Dr Wilkinson as President not only honours everything he has contributed over the decades, but also provides an important link between the Club’s proud history and the future we are working to build.”
