Tom Foley revealed last week the threats, including death threats, received after the World Cup final between South Africa and New Zealand, where he was a video referee. Englishman Tom Foley has announced that he has decided to stop playing at international level due to the poor treatment of referees by supporters. However, he will continue to referee in the Premiership.
“After reaching the pinnacle as a referee in the Rugby World Cup final, it seems like a good time to take a break from the international game,” he said. For 13 years, I was fortunate to officiate alongside many dedicated professionals and take part in some of the biggest matches in international rugby. The pressure and the way our decisions were all scrutinized after the Rugby World Cup final, but also the torrents of criticism and abuse online, have convinced me that this is the right decision for me, at this stage of my life. While it is a privilege to be at the heart of some of the most iconic moments in our sport, the increase in vitriol, when demands and expectations are so high, has led me to stop.”
The CEO of the English Football Federation (RFU) Bill Sweeney praised his international career – 48 test matches – and expressed his indignation. “The abuse Tom has received since the Rugby World Cup final, along with other officials involved in that match, is completely unacceptable and no one should be treated in this way, doing their job for the sport in which he is so committed and passionate. We will do all we can to help prevent abuse of match officials and players and we urge everyone in our sport to consider the role they can play in upholding the values of rugby. »
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