World Rugby has said it regrets they cannot identify the individuals who targeted England stars Asher Opoku-Fordjour and Chandler Cunningham-South with sickening racist abuse during the national side’s 22-17 win over Argentina in San Juan on July 12.
England reported the incidents to the game’s governing body last week and a ‘thorough investigation’ took place – one which included player evidence.
Mail Sport understands forwards Opoku-Fordjour and Cunningham-South were targeted by Argentinian fans while they warmed up behind the posts as replacements during the match.
On Monday, World Rugby said in a statement: ‘While it is clear an incident took place, we regret the individuals responsible could not be identified.’
As such, no arrests or specific punishments have been handed out.
In response, Argentina has ‘developed an action plan to enhance their operations, educate fans and better prevent such unacceptable incidents from occurring again.’
World Rugby says it regrets not being able to find the Argentinian fans responsible for racially abusing England players
Asher Opoku-Fordjour (pictured) and Chandler Cunningham-South were allegedly targeted
The incident allegedly happened while the players warmed up behind the posts during the tie
It is understood it has been impossible to identify which fans were responsible for the racism because the stadium in San Juan had unrestricted seating, thus allowing supporters to roam freely within the arena.
RFU chief executive Bill Sweeney said: ‘There is absolutely no place for racism in our sport and these incidents must be condemned in the strongest possible terms.
‘Every player, regardless of their background, has the right to represent their country with pride and dignity, free from discrimination and abuse. We are in close contact with the players affected and have offered them our full support.
‘We’re pleased World Rugby was able to act swiftly to investigate and thank Argentina for their full co-operation and support. We trust they will take the necessary steps to prevent any recurrence of such unacceptable behaviour.’
Without 13 of their key players who were selected for the British & Irish Lions tour of Australia, England had a fine summer – winning 2-0 in Argentina and beating the USA.
Gabriel Travaglini, president of Argentina Rugby, stated: ‘We strongly condemn all acts of racism and stand in solidarity with the England players who felt aggrieved.
‘Upon learning of the incidents, intense efforts were made to identify the small group of five or seven individuals responsible within a crowd of over 20,000 spectators.
‘Unfortunately, despite an exhaustive search, it was not possible to identify the perpetrators. We will continue to work with World Rugby to educate fans and eradicate any similar manifestations in the future, ensuring our events are spaces of respect and inclusion for everyone.’
