Rugby's Racial Abuse Scandal: Former England Centre Opens Up on Traumatic Experiences and Career-ending Fallout

Former England centre Luther Burrell has spoken out about the racism he endured during his time in the sport, revealing that he was subjected to comments about slavery, bananas, and fried chicken, and was called a "slave" by a teammate. An independent investigation found that Burrell was the victim of racial abuse during his time at Newcastle Falcons, but the Rugby Football Union (RFU) chose not to take any disciplinary action.

Burrell's revelations have led to a deeper look at the culture within the elite game and the implementation of an action plan for the professional game. The RFU has placed significant focus on inclusion and diversity in rugby union and has implemented face-to-face education on building inclusive cultures in every top-flight men's and women's club in England.

However, Burrell's experience has had a lasting impact on his career, leading him to retire from professional rugby at the age of 34. He says that speaking out about racism played a pivotal role in his inability to earn another contract in the sport.

Key Takeaways:

• Luther Burrell, a 15-cap England international, was subjected to racial abuse during his time at Newcastle Falcons, including comments about slavery, bananas, and fried chicken.
• An independent investigation found that Burrell was the victim of racial abuse, but the Rugby Football Union (RFU) chose not to take any disciplinary action.
• Burrell's revelations have led to a deeper look at the culture within the elite game and the implementation of an action plan for the professional game.
• The RFU has implemented face-to-face education on building inclusive cultures in every top-flight men's and women's club in England.
• Burrell has retired from professional rugby at the age of 34, citing the traumatic experiences he faced as a major factor.
• Burrell is still working to improve inclusion and diversity in rugby, with his 12 Foundation helping children in under-served communities on and off the pitch.

Statistics:

• 15: Number of England caps won by Luther Burrell between 2014 and 2016.
• 4: Number of tries scored by Burrell during his England career.
• 3: Number of tries scored by Burrell during the 2014 Six Nations.
• 7: Number of years Burrell spent playing for Northampton Saints, where he won the Premiership and the European Challenge Cup.
• 2: Number of seasons Burrell played for Newcastle Falcons, where he faced racial abuse.

Sources:

• The Mail on Sunday
• BBC Sport
• The Rugby Football Union (RFU)
• The 12 Foundation