RFU Statement: Tom Curry and Bongi Mbonambi
The Rugby Football Union (RFU) has expressed its unwavering support for English back row player Tom Curry, who brought to light allegations of racial abuse he encountered during last Saturday’s Rugby World Cup semi-final. The RFU stands firmly by Curry’s side in this matter.
On Thursday, it was announced that a World Rugby investigation concluded due to insufficient evidence, and no charges will be pressed against Bongi Mbonambi, the Springboks hooker.
The RFU’s statement conveys their wholehearted endorsement of Tom Curry for raising the issue of racial abuse he endured while playing for England against South Africa during the recent match.
During the England-South Africa match, Tom Curry reported to the referee that he had been subjected to racial abuse by Mbongeni Mbonambi.
Moreover, Tom Curry informed the subsequent World Rugby investigation that he had experienced the same abuse from Mbonambi during the 2022 autumn Test. World Rugby, however, has decided not to pursue charges for either incident.
The RFU expresses deep disappointment with World Rugby’s decision. They believe that not presenting the evidence before an independent disciplinary panel has deprived the disciplinary process of the opportunity to hear Tom Curry’s account of these serious events and assess the available evidence independently.
The RFU firmly supports Tom Curry in the face of the online abuse and condemns the mistreatment he and his family have endured on social media for bringing to light behavior that has no place in society or the rugby field.
The RFU emphasizes that any form of abuse is unacceptable and runs counter to the fundamental values of rugby. It is vital that individuals involved in rugby union feel safe and empowered to report any inappropriate conduct within the sport.
Despite the online abuse, Tom Curry was selected by England coach Steve Borthwick to start in the upcoming bronze medal match against Argentina. On the other hand, Bongi Mbonambi has been included in the Springboks XV for the World Cup final against New Zealand.
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