World Rugby ‘formally reviewing’ Bongi Mbonambi’s alleged racist slur
Bongi Mbonambi and Tom Curry during the South Africa v England Rugby World Cup clash.
World Rugby have confirmed that they are investigating Tom Curry’s allegation that Bongi Mbonambi called him a “white c**t”.
The alleged incident occurred during Saturday’s semi-final between England and the Springboks.
South Africa eventually prevailed 16-15 thanks to Handre Pollard’s late penalty, which took them into the showpiece event.
It was later revealed that Curry had lodged a complaint with referee Ben O’Keeffe during the encounter, and the governing body have announced that they are looking into the matter.
World Rugby’s statement
“World Rugby takes all allegations of discriminatory behaviour extremely seriously,” the statement read.
“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.
“World Rugby will not be making further comment until the conclusion of the process.”
The back-row’s complaint came in the 23rd minute when he spoke to O’Keeffe while there was a stoppage in play.
Curry could be heard over the ref mic asking O’Keeffe: “Sir, Sir, if their hooker calls me a white c**t what do I do?”
The referee replied: “Nothing please,” before adding: “I will be on it,” although the New Zealander may not have been speaking to the England flanker in that second message.
There is no audible evidence which confirms Mbonambi’s alleged abuse, but Curry stated afterwards that something untoward was said to him.
However, he declined to expand further on what went on by saying: “It does not need to be talked about.”
Impact
If charged and found guilty, the Boks will likely be without the hooker for their Rugby World Cup final with the All Blacks.
Springboks coach Deon Davids was asked about the alleged incident, but he was unaware of what could have happened.
“Honestly, I’m not aware of any comment. It was never discussed, so I’m just not quite sure what the comment was or where it was said, so I don’t know.” Davids said.
However, SA Rugby later released a statement which confirmed that they are looking into the matter.
“We are aware of the allegation, which we take very seriously, and are reviewing the available evidence. We will engage with Bongi if anything is found to substantiate the claim,” it read.
