Johannesburg – World Rugby on Monday issued a statement regarding alleged discriminatory language in the World Cup semi-final won by South Africa on Saturday, (21 October 2023).
“We can confirm that we are formally reviewing the allegation made by England’s Tom Curry in relation to the use of discriminatory language during the England versus South Africa Rugby World Cup 2023 semi-final on Saturday,” said World Rugby.
The Springboks beat England 16-15 to secure a place in the final against New Zealand.
World Rugby said, “it takes all allegations of discriminatory behaviour extremely seriously.
“World Rugby will not be making further comment until the conclusion of the process.”
Local media reports said it was Springbok hooker Bongi Mbonambi who was accused of racism by Curry, the England flanker.
Mbonambi allegedly made a racist comment during their Rugby World Cup semifinal at Stade de France on Saturday.
Curry told referee Ben O’Keeffe in the 28th minute of their 16-15 defeat to the Springboks: “Sir, sir, if their hooker calls me a white c**t, what do I do?”
O’Keeffe replied: “Nothing, please.”
