Racist Abuse Allegation Against Former England International Ugo Monye Leads to Charges
A 31-year-old man is set to be charged with the racially aggravated harassment of former England rugby union international and current broadcast personality Ugo Monye. The incident occurred in November 2023 while Monye was working as a pundit for TNT Sports at a match between Exeter and Gloucester at Sandy Park.
Monye reported that he was subjected to racist abuse from a member of the crowd, posting on social media at the time:
“Disgraceful. Not a single person said a word, challenged or even reported it.”
The abuse was immediately condemned by Exeter, and an investigation was launched.
Charges Brought Against Angus Beukes
On Monday, Devon and Cornwall Police confirmed that Angus Beukes, 31, has been summoned to appear before Exeter Magistrates’ Court on July 24, where he will be charged with “racially/religiously aggravated harassment/alarm/distress by words/writing.” The charge relates to the incident on November 19, 2023, in Sandy Park Way, Exeter.
Exeter Rugby Club stated, “This behaviour will not be tolerated at our rugby club, and we condemn it in the strongest possible terms.” The incident is the latest in a series of controversies surrounding the sport’s efforts to improve its image and record on diversity and inclusion.
Ongoing Efforts to Address Discrimination in Rugby
In October, the RFU confirmed that a former council member had been banned for using a racial slur, and two years ago, former England centre Luther Burrell revealed that he had experienced racist abuse, leading to an independent review that uncovered similar discrimination at all levels of elite rugby in England.
🔗 Source
