Bongi Mbonambi to play Rugby World Cup final after insufficient evidence found of Tom Curry's claim of racial abuse
World Rugby said Tom Curry (right) made the allegation "in good faith" and condemned the abuse he received online. (Getty Images: Mike Egerton)
South Africa hooker Bongi Mbonambi has been cleared to play in the Rugby World Cup final after insufficient evidence was found that he used discriminatory language towards England flanker Tom Curry.
Key points:
- England's Tom Curry made the allegation during the World Cup semifinal against South Africa
- World Rugby said "there is insufficient evidence to proceed with charges"
- The governing body condemned the abuse both players had received on social media
Mbonambi, the only specialist hooker in the Springbok squad as they prepare to face New Zealand on Sunday morning (AEST), was investigated after Curry made the allegation during the first half of last weekend's semifinal, which South Africa won 16-15.
"Any allegation of discrimination is taken extremely seriously by World Rugby, warranting a thorough investigation," the governing body said in a statement.
"Having considered all the available evidence, including match footage, audio and evidence from both teams, the governing body has determined that there is insufficient evidence at this time to proceed with charges.
"Therefore, the matter is deemed closed unless additional evidence comes to light."
World Rugby added that it accepted that Curry made the allegation in good faith, "and that there is no suggestion that the allegation was deliberately false or malicious".
Audio and video footage posted on social media show Curry telling referee Ben O'Keeffe he believed there had been the use of discriminatory language.
No action was taken during the match.
England have subsequently highlighted online abuse aimed at the 25-year-old Curry as the review dragged on through the week.
"World Rugby is also concerned by the social media abuse that both players have been subjected to this week," the statement read.
"There is no place in rugby or society for discrimination, abuse or hate speech, and World Rugby urges fans to embrace the sport's values of respect, integrity and solidarity."
ABC Sport will be live blogging the Rugby World Cup final between New Zealand and South Africa from 6am AEDT on Sunday.
The ABC of SPORT
Reuters