John Ribot stood down as executive director and chief executive of the Melbourne Storm as News Limited took over 100 per cent ownership of the National Rugby League club.

The Storm released a statement in which it said Ribot had resigned his post to concentrate on his other business interests.

However, he will retain a close involvement with the club as a consultant for the next five years.

Both News Limited, who purchased Ribot's 25 per cent interest in the Storm, and Ribot said the decision was not a result of the current police investigation involving two Storm players.

Ribot was in hot water with the NRL recently after failing to inform the league two of the club's players were under police investigation.

"It is a something I have been contemplating and discussing with News Limited for several months," Ribot said.

"It is a sad day for me because I have become so emotionally involved with the club and its people. The supporters have been fantastic, their support and that of our corporate partners has been tremendous.

"The highlight of my involvement with Melbourne Storm has been the loyalty of staff and the lifelong friendships I have formed with them and our supporters. These relationships have made this such a difficult decision.

"The desire of News Limited to keep me in a consultancy role allows me to continue to commit to the Storm's future. I believe the team faces its most exciting year and I look forward to contributing to that success through my consultancy.

"Melbourne Storm is the team I'll always support, and whilst the challenges of this project have been difficult, they certainly have been extremely rewarding." Ribot was instrumental in establishing Melbourne Storm in 1998. In its first season, the club finished in third place, just one win behind minor premiers Brisbane. The next season, the club won the Premiership. News Limited chief executive officer, Mr John Hartigan, paid tribute to Ribot's role as a cornerstone of the club's phenomenal success.

Brought to you by AAP © 2024 AAP