Rugby referee Tom Foley has stepped down from international rugby, after receiving a series of death threats following the 2023 Rugby World Cup Final. Foley was the Television Match Official for the final, that saw South Africa defeat New Zealand 12-11 in Paris.
Foley has since stated to the BBC, that he received death threats, amongst a series of shocking online abuse following the final.
He has today announced his decision to “take a break” from refereeing test match rugby. The match between the Springboks and All Blacks saw New Zealand captain Sam Cane become the first player to receive a red card in the Rugby World Cup Final. All Blacks back row Shannon Frizell, Springboks captain Siya Kolisi and winger Cheslin Kolbe also received yellow cards.
New Zealand scrum-half Aaron Smith had a try ruled out in the Final, following a TMO review that has since become a hotly debated score. Foley will continue to referee Premiership rugby, and his statement came via the RFU:
“Having reached the pinnacle in officiating at the Rugby World Cup Final, now feels the right time to take a break from the international game,” said Foley. “Over the course of 13 years, I have been fortunate to officiate alongside many dedicated professionals and be involved in some of the greatest games in international rugby.
“However, the pressure and scrutiny I came under after the Rugby World Cup final, along with a torrent of criticism and abuse online, has helped to reaffirm that this is the right decision for me at this point in my life. While it’s a privilege to be at the heart of some of the sport’s most iconic moments, the increasing levels of vitriol, when the demands and expectation are so high, have led me to this moment.
“Working as an international match official takes you away from home for extended periods, and I am looking forward to spending more time at home with my young children. I am very grateful to my family for their support during my career; without them none of it would have been possible.”
RFU CEO Bill Sweeney, added: “I would like to thank Tom for his outstanding contribution to international officiating. Tom has officiated in 48 games internationally and is considered one of the best Television Match Officials globally.
“The abuse he has suffered since the Rugby World Cup final, along with other officials involved in that game, is totally unacceptable and no one should be treated in this way, doing their job for the sport they are so committed to and passionate about.
“We will do everything possible to help guard against the abuse aimed at match officials and players and would urge everyone in our game to consider the role they can play in upholding rugby values.
“Although Tom steps back from Test officiating, we are pleased that he will remain part of the RFU Professional Game Match Officials Group, and that the sport will continue to benefit from his extensive experience domestically.”