New Zealand Police Probe Threats Against Rugby World Cup Refs

The New Zealand Police (NZP) is conducting an investigation into alleged online threats and harassment directed at referees from the previous Rugby World Cup. Detective Inspector Stuart Mills of the NZP revealed on Friday that World Rugby, the sport’s governing body, has lodged three complaints regarding death threats against match officials, believed to originate from New Zealand.

The allegations involve potential violations of the Harmful Digital Communications Act and threats to life, as shared by Mills with local media. World Rugby recently stated that there have been successful prosecutions and ongoing legal actions in various countries related to online abuse aimed at match officials and players.

World Rugby’s Chief Executive, Alan Gilpin, expressed deep concern over the increasing trend of online hostility in both society and sports, deeming it wholly unacceptable. He emphasized the organization’s commitment to safeguarding international match officials and their families by ensuring that offenders are brought to justice.

Wayne Barnes, the referee of the World Cup final in October, retired shortly after the event in Paris, disclosing the harassment he and his family endured post-match. Additionally, English referee Tom Foley, who served as the Television Match Official in the final where South Africa beat New Zealand, announced in December his decision to withdraw from international refereeing, highlighting online abuse as a key factor.