Maro Itoje hopeful English rugby’s racism investigation can change game

Maro Itoje says English rugby’s racism investigation should be a watershed moment for the game but has warned change will not occur overnight. The England forward says he has also been the victim of “below standard”remarks in the past but hopes the Rugby Football Union’s efforts to enhance diversity and inclusion in the sport will improve the situation.

This week a Rugby Football Union report, prompted by Luther Burrell’s allegations of racism while he was a Newcastle player in 2020, found examples of racism “in every area of elite rugby” in England. Itoje, who has spoken out previously on the subject of race and discrimination, believes it underlines the need to work even harder to ensure rugby is perceived as accessible for all.

“That’s not a great place to be, that’s not what we want in our sport,” said Itoje, when asked about the RFU report’s findings. “As always we need to be actively trying to be anti-racist and try to eradicate this from our sport, our game and our lives. I definitely hope we can continue to improve in this area, continue to make rugby a much more accessible sport and a much more comfortable sport for all players, regardless of skin colour or creed.

“I guess I’ve had a few experiences where things weren’t exactly what I’d have liked. I’ve never felt my skin colour has held me back in terms of selection, in terms of playing or how the coaches have perceived me. But I guess there have been occasions with individuals throughout my time that have been below standard.”

Itoje says that, in his experience, people do not necessarily appreciate the potential impact of their words. “Most people don’t realise what they are saying or doing is racist until you actually explain it to them. Often it’s after you