Blowing the whistle on racial discrimination terminated my career - Burrell

Warning: This article contains descriptions of racially offensive language and conduct

FormerEngland centre Luther Burrell states that going public to expose racial discrimination in rugby union led his professional journey to an early conclusion.

In a June 2022, Burrell described racism as being "widespread" in the sport, displaying Whatsapp messages and recalling training ground "jokes" he had been subject to while representing Newcastle.

Then 34 and without a team, Burrell's only professional rugby since has been a handful of games with guest team the Barbarians.

"I've have definitely had to retire because of what went on," he explained to reporters.

"I hoped to continue competing, naturally I did. I sought that, and it collapsed when news came out that there were investigations underway.

"That was difficult - I had to simply come to terms with the outcome and accept that this entire situation is a lot more important than me."

A sports organization report in 2023 found Burrell's allegations were accurate "on the balance of probability", but said it could not gather enough proof to categorically say they happened at Newcastle.

Burrell told media he also faced prejudice within the England set-up, during a Test career that saw him earn 15 appearances after his debut in February 2014.

"I have had several traumatic experiences within England camp," he said.

"Certain instances of discrimination and other just outdated thinking that's really inappropriate."

Racism had become normalised in dressing rooms, in Burrell's view.

"It's something that has been disguised as humour and that's been the problem that I've myself experienced and seen," said Burrell, who is of Jamaican descent.

"Over a period of time you just learn to believe that it's the norm and that is fine and that it's not malicious, but that's nonsense."

Burrell explains he was finally spurred to speak out after a team-mate at Newcastle referred to him as a "slave" and told him to put sun cream on his wrists and ankles "where chains would be placed."

The governing body said Burrell's disclosures had led to "a deeper look at the culture within the elite game and to the implementation of an strategy for the professional game."

"We has given considerable attention on diversity and diversity in rugby union and a substantial amount of work completed both before and since Luther Burrell came forward and shared his experiences of racism and class discrimination," it added.

"The organization are continuing work with clubs and partners in the professional game to work for a culture of inclusivity but acknowledge this takes time and is an continuous effort."

Every Prem and PWR club now has in-person education on creating welcoming cultures, with its effectiveness monitored via individual reports and feedback.

All England players, including youth squads, are trained in being "engaged observers" to intervene and protect others from harmful conduct.

"You be so proud of what you have done," Burrell's mother Joyce told him as part of the documentary about his experiences.

"We know it has had this effect on you and finished your career, but in our eyes, you have achieved so much. We are so impressed of you and to have you as a son."

Burrell's father Geoff died soon after the production of the film, and his sibling passed away recently.

Burrell, who grew up on a council estate in his hometown, continues his work to make the game more open.

His 12 Foundation works to connect with young people in disadvantaged communities and support them thrive on and off the pitch with free sports training, mentoring and nutrition education.

"My personal motivations are genuine, I want to see the evolution of the game and if others is willing to share their experience then I'll continue to fight that cause because I'm not just doing this for my own benefit," he said.

"We have an responsibility to make the sport as great as it can be and the longer I speak about it perhaps the more comfortable fellow players will feel about discussing their personal stories as well.

"I need to take the bull by the horns and keep bearing this flag and continue supporting this responsibility and do what I can to create possibilities and make the sport more attractive and more inclusive.

"There are a lot of disadvantaged children and a lot of poverty and I sincerely believe that rugby has the ability to transform their futures, just as it did for me."