2023 Rugby World Cup
In a Rugby World Cup semifinal match, South African hooker Bongi Mbonambi is under internal investigation by the Springboks for an alleged racial slur directed at England's Tom Curry. During the game, which the Springboks won 16-15 at the Stade de France, Mbonambi reportedly insulted Curry using a racial term.
England's flanker, Tom Curry, chose not to respond to the racial insult, as directed by referee Ben O'Keefe.
The South African Rugby Federation expressed that they are taking the allegation very seriously and are currently examining the available evidence. The English team has until Monday morning to report the incident to rugby authorities.
Mbonambi is the only specialist hooker in the South African squad, following Malcom Marx's injury, who was replaced by fly-half Handré Pollard.
Sanctions for on-field verbal offenses are relatively rare. In 2016, England's Joe Marler was suspended for two matches for remarks made to Welsh player Samson Lee. In the previous year, South Africa's Jacques Potgieger received a fine for a homophobic insult during a Super Rugby match.
The South African team will face New Zealand on Saturday, October 28th, in a bid to secure their fourth World Cup title."
02:10
BRICS: African leaders call for reforms of international institutions
01:21
South African Minister of International Relations hails ties with China, ahead of BRICS summit
01:43
16th BRICS summit: a test of Moscow's influence in world affairs
Go to video
South Africa's 1st democratic Labour Minister, former Reserve Bank Governor Tito Mboweni has died
01:03
UK zoo welcomes endangered African Penguin chicks
01:07
30 countries confirm their participation in October BRICS summit