Alex Powdrell
The RFU have issued a formal Directive about allegations of discriminatory behaviour by players, coaches or spectators which is not the subject of an on field sanction by the referee. The term ‘discriminatory behaviour’ includes any use of racist, homophobic or sexist language by or towards a player, coach, spectator or match official.
Any Society referee who clearly witnesses such behaviour is expected to deal with it directly. That may include red carding a player or coach who uses such language or requiring a coach or club official to remove a spectator who is guilty of this.
There will be cases where the use of discriminatory language is reported to the referee who has not heard it directly themselves, or who has heard it but is not able themselves to identify the offender. Referees are not expected to apply an in game sanction solely on the basis of an allegation from a player, coach or spectator which the referee cannot themselves verify. In such a case, however, a full note of the circumstances (including the actual words used or alleged to have been used) must be e-mailed within 24 hours to Mike Skeels (mike.skeels@ntlworld.com) and Tom Jackman (twjackman@gmail.com), one of whom will forward the report to the RFU.
The full text of the RFU’s announcement is set out below
I am writing to you all today to highlight a requirement for referees to report allegations of discrimination in all instances, including those where there has been no sanction or action taken on field by the match officiating team. Allegations of discrimination should be noted by the referee and reported to discipline@rfu.com at the earliest opportunity. I appreciate that there may be some differing opinions on this process, but it is essential that this happens.
I am sure you will all help us to make our game as inclusive as possible. Please can you ensure that this is passed on to all match officials within your respective societies and federations ASAP.
