Exeter Chiefs issue update on racism incident which was ‘captured on CCTV’

Exeter Chiefs have issued a second statement since television pundit Ugo Monye was subjected to the “most blatant racism” he has heard at Sandy Park.

Former England international Monye said the incident occurred as he was leaving the stadium following the Chiefs’ 25-24 Premiership victory against Gloucester.

The 40-year-old explained that one supporter ran through the crowd and repeatedly shouted a racist slur, which understandably left Monye seething on Sunday night.

Ugo Monye ‘so fed up’

“Disgraceful. Not a single person said a word, challenged or even reported it,” the former Harlequins and British and Irish Lion wrote on X, formerly Twitter.

“He walks off after a mild scuffle and fans are now telling me ‘We’re with you’ B******S you’re with me. You weren’t with me when you saw and heard the most blatant racism I’ve seen from a supporter at a live game. So fed up.”

Exeter promptly launched an investigation into the matter while Monye received several replies that largely expressed sympathy and anger for the ex-player’s plight.

Less than 24 hours later, the Premiership outfit have now given an update on their website and revealed the shocking incident was captured on CCTV at Sandy Park.

“Exeter Rugby Club have been working closely alongside Devon & Cornwall Police following the reported incident of racial abuse on Sunday 19th November, which took place outside of the stadium and not within our grounds, at the conclusion of our Gallagher Premiership match with Gloucester Rugby,” the statement read.

“The incident was captured on CCTV and this evidence along with all relevant information has been passed to Devon & Cornwall Police and the club will continue to work closely with the authorities to support their investigations.”

Zero-tolerance policy

The club continued: “We would like to say a big thank you to the huge number of people who have been in contact with the club with statements and information regarding the incident. We know that this behaviour is not representative of our fans.

“Exeter Chiefs have a zero-tolerance policy for behaviour of this kind, and we have acted as quickly as possible to ensure that this has been dealt with following the advice of all appropriate authorities.

“We would ask anyone who has any information regarding this incident to contact Devon & Cornwall Police quoting 258 20/11/23.”

READ MORE: Henry Slade breaks Gloucester hearts as he sends reminder to England of his quality