World Rugby has announced the results of an investigation into allegations that a South African player was racially abused during the semi-final match against England. Englishman Tom Curry accidentally claimed to referee Ben O’Keefe that prostitute Bongi Mbonambi called him a “white bastard”.

An investigation has been launched and World Rugby announced on Thursday (October 26) that following a “thorough investigation” there was currently “insufficient evidence to bring charges”.

They said the review was carried out into allegations by English player Tom Curry that South African player Mbongeni Mbonambi used discriminatory language during Saturday’s 2023 Rugby World Cup semi-final between England and South Africa, as well as another allegation made in recent days. . about a previous match from the 2022 Autumn Nations Series.

In the recording from referee Ben O’Keeffe’s microphone, Curry can clearly be heard speaking to the referee 24 minutes into the game. He said, “Sir, sir, if your whore calls me white, what should I do?” The New Zealander replied: “Nothing, please.” He then adds, after a brief pause, “I’ll take care of it,” although it’s unclear whether he was referring to a specific incident.

It was later reported that Mbonambi may have used a South African word to refer to the team, namely “kant”, but World Rugby said there was insufficient evidence and no further action would be taken.

A statement released on Thursday morning said: “Any allegations of discrimination are taken extremely seriously by World Rugby and require a full investigation. After considering all available evidence, including video footage of the match, audio and evidence from both teams, the governing body must have determined that it was. Therefore, the case is considered closed if no additional evidence is found.”

He added: “It is important to note that World Rugby accepts that Tom Curry made these allegations in good faith and there is no suggestion that these allegations were deliberately false or malicious.”

Since the allegations emerged, Tom Curry has been the target of online threats and abuse from coach Richard Wigglesworth. saying he was receiving support from England.

World Rugby said it was “concerned about the social media abuse both players have suffered this week”.

The statement said: “There is no place for discrimination, abuse or hate speech in rugby or in society, and World Rugby encourages fans to embrace the sport’s values ​​of respect, integrity and solidarity.”