RFU investigates racist abuse at Cheltenham rugby match

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 16 Oct, 12:02 · Archive

The Rugby Football Union is investigating after Smiths Rugby players allegedly faced racist abuse from Chosen Hill FP RFC supporters during a match in Cheltenham on Saturday.

Smiths Rugby reported that its players faced racist abuse and deeply offensive personal insults from supporters of Chosen Hill Former Pupils RFC during a match at the Prince of Wales Stadium in Cheltenham on Saturday. Smiths Rugby was defeated 22-29 in the fixture. The club said the match itself was played in good spirits with both sets of players and coaches conducting themselves respectfully.

The Rugby Football Union is investigating the incident. Smiths Rugby said it has reported the matter to the relevant governing bodies and is standing firmly with its players. The club stated that discrimination, intimidation and personal abuse have no place in rugby or in its community.

Chosen Hill Former Pupils RFC said it is taking the complaint very seriously and does not condone racism, discrimination or abusive behaviour. The club said appropriate disciplinary action will follow where warranted. Smiths Rugby has encouraged players or members needing support to contact the club committee as it continues to engage with the appropriate processes.

How it is being reported

• Rugby Football Union investigating 'racist abuse' at Cheltenham game"The behaviour directed towards our players was wholly unacceptable"Gloucestershire Live · 16 Oct, 11:36
• Rugby supporters' 'racist abuse' at game investigatedSmiths Rugby says its players were abused by supporters of Chosen Hill Former Pupils RFC.BBC Gloucestershire · 14 Oct, 16:40

In this story: Smiths Rugby · Chosen Hill Former Pupils RFC · Rugby Football Union · Cheltenham · Prince of Wales Stadium

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