Rugby: Insulted and harassed, the World Cup referee in France ends his international career

This is an extremely rare case. One referee decided to step down after being subjected to numerous insults. England’s Tom Foley suspended his international career on Monday due to a “torrent of online criticism and insults” after he officiated the 2023 World Cup final as a video referee, the England Rugby Union announced on Monday. (RFU).

On October 28, South Africa won the World Cup by defeating the New Zealanders (12-11) in the final match at the Stade de France. He was called on five times, for a foul and a try, by the All Blacks, and the video referees played the key roles, handing out the first red card in World Cup final history to New Zealand’s captain, Sam Dack.

“A torrent of criticism and insults on the Internet”

“Having reached the pinnacle of refereeing in the Rugby World Cup final, I think it’s time to take a break at international level,” the international referee announced in a Russian Football Union press release. The impression and examination minutes that came after the finale, since the torrent criticizes and inserts the ligne, I am comfortable with the idea that the best decision comes before it at this stage. my life. »

Tom Foley, who has officiated 48 international matches since 2016, including 16 during the Six Nations and eight during the 2023 World Cup, had officiated as a video referee alongside central referee Wayne Barnes, who is also the victim of online harassment after the encounter.

The club’s general manager said: “The insults he has been subjected to since the final, like the other referees in this match, are completely unacceptable and no one should be treated in this way while doing their job in a sport they so passionately love.” RFU, Bill Sweeney. We will do everything we can to help combat abuse aimed at referees and players, and call on everyone in our sport to consider the role they can play in standing up for the values ​​of rugby. »