English forward Joe Marler may yet be banned for an alleged racial slur to Samson Lee. Marler was not charged
Marler was not charged by a Six Nations commission after they investigated a claim that Marler called Lee a 'gypsy boy' in the aftermath of the England's game with Wales. His exoneration caused considerable consternation among supporters and commentators alike, but Marler may now face a suspension over the charge after World Rugby confirmed they were to investigate the matter further.
World Rugby released the following statement:
World Rugby has confirmed that England’s Joe Marler will face an independent World Rugby misconduct hearing for comments made towards Wales’ Samson Lee during the RBS 6 Nations match at Twickenham on 12 March.
World Rugby is of the view that the comments amount to misconduct and/or a breach of the code of conduct under World Rugby Regulation 20 and should have been considered by an independent process.
In the absence of such a process by Six Nations Rugby, World Rugby is exercising its right to take appropriate action before an independent judicial committee.
The RFU (the player’s union) and Six Nations Rugby have been informed and the case will be heard by an independent judicial committee as soon as practically possible. Details will be announced in due course and the player is free to continue playing in the interim.
RFU CEO Ian Ritchie commented on the matter yesterday, believing that Marler should not be charged any further.Marler apologised for the comment afterwards.
