Monye racism allegation mars Premiership match

NEWS: Exeter apologised to former England wing Ugo Monye after he reported being subjected to racist abuse following the Chiefs’ 25-24 win over Gloucester on Sunday.

Monye, who is now a prominent rugby pundit, said he was “fed up” after the supporter went unchallenged from those around him after shouting a racial slur.

“In light of recent accusations regarding an incident of racist abuse at Sandy Park following the conclusion of our victory over Gloucester Rugby in the Premiership, Exeter Rugby Club will be launching a full investigation,” Exeter said in a statement.

“This behaviour will not be tolerated at our Rugby Club, and we condemn it in the strongest possible terms.

“Our team will begin to review CCTV footage from the stadium immediately in an attempt to identify the individual in question and we would like to extend our sincerest apologies to Ugo Monye, a member of the rugby community that is highly respected by everyone at our club.”

Monye is chair of the Rugby Football Union’s diversity and inclusion advisory board.

“He walks off after a mild scuffle and fans are now telling me ‘We’re with you'”, Monye posted on X, formerly known as Twitter.

“You weren’t with me when you saw and heard the most blatant racism I’ve seen from a supporter at a live game. So fed up.”

“Not a single person said a word, challenged or even reported it.

On the field, Henry Slade landed a 45-metre penalty to snatch victory for Exeter with the last kick of the game.