The Queensland Rugby League has been rocked following the shock resignation of chief executive Ben Ikin.

His bombshell move comes just ahead of the State of Origin series opener against NSW on May 27 in Sydney.

Ikin has formally notified QRL chairman Brian Canavan he will be moving on – and the QRL board is also aware of the decision.

The former Maroons Origin star joined the QRL as CEO in May 2023 following a stint as Broncos football boss under former Brisbane coach Kevin Walters.

Ikin is expected to remain with the QRL until the end of July.

During his time at the helm, playing numbers have increased by 12 per cent in the Sunshine State, according to News Corp.

Queensland Rugby League has been rocked following the shock resignation of chief executive Ben Ikin (pictured)

It comes just ahead of the State of Origin series opener against NSW on May 27 in Sydney (pictured, Cameron Munster and coach Billy Slater with the shield last year)

The Maroons also won the 2023 and 2025 series under coach Billy Slater, who is off-contract at the end of the 2026 campaign.

One-time NRL 360 co-host Ikin isn’t tipped to join the Perth Bears – who enter the NRL next year – with the 49-year-old instead predicted to seek out new corporate opportunities. 

‘I have thoroughly enjoyed my time working at the QRL,’ Ikin said on Thursday.

‘I’ve met so many people and created some incredible memories, I leave feeling very grateful.’

‘Ben’s leadership has placed the QRL in a very strong position in the sporting landscape and our ongoing strategies and programs are well advanced,’ QRL chairman Brian Canavan said.