England captain Maro Itoje explains why he WON'T sing famous English anthem

Wednesday, 29 January 2025 at 20:18

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byRugby Rucker

Newly appointed England captain Maro Itoje has made a bold statement ahead of the Six Nations, revealing that he will no longer sing
Swing Low, Sweet Chariot due to its origins in American slavery.

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The song has been a staple of Twickenham matchdays since 1987, with fans belting it out to celebrate England’s biggest moments. However, its historical background came under scrutiny in 2020, prompting the Rugby Football Union (RFU) to reassess its official stance.

A song under the spotlight

The RFU launched a review into Swing Low, Sweet Chariot at the height of the Black Lives Matter movement, acknowledging its complex past. The song is widely credited to Wallace Willis, a 19th-century freed slave, and was originally a spiritual hymn sung by enslaved African Americans.

While the governing body ultimately chose not to ban the chant, it made significant changes. The RFU stopped using the song in official marketing and merchandise, aiming to educate fans about its origins rather than outright prohibiting it. A video was released to provide historical context, and the union made it clear they would encourage fans to consider the meaning behind what they were singing.

Itoje: 'I won't sing it again'

Itoje, who has previously voiced his discomfort with the song, has now decided to take an individual stand. The 30-year-old lock, who is of Nigerian heritage, spoke to L’Equipe about his decision.

“I’m not going to tell people what they should or shouldn’t do, but personally, I won’t sing this song again,” said Itoje.

“I sang it before when I was naive and didn’t know its origins, but now, knowing the context in the creation of Swing Low, Sweet Chariot, it’s not an anthem that I’m going to repeat any more.”

What next for England fans?

With Itoje taking such a strong stance as captain, the question now is whether fans will follow suit. The RFU’s approach has been one of education rather than enforcement, allowing the crowd to decide whether the tradition should continue.

Some supporters argue that the song has been adopted as a rugby anthem and its meaning has evolved beyond its origins. Others, however, feel that it’s time to move on, especially if key figures in the England squad are distancing themselves from it.

Itoje’s decision adds a new layer to an already ongoing debate, and with the Six Nations around the corner, all eyes will be on Twickenham to see if Swing Low still echoes around the stands—or if change is finally on the horizon.

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Mike and Zara Tindall are among rugby union’s five richest couples

Rugby’s richest couples have built empires that go beyond the field, blending fame, fortune, and family in fascinating ways.

From high-profile partnerships to humble beginnings, these power pairs have amassed impressive fortunes while leaving a lasting legacy. With stories of childhood love, philanthropic missions, and royal connections, each couple brings their own unique flair to the game.

Here’s a look at the top rugby couples whose bonds—and bank accounts—have made them iconic.

Johnny & Laura Sexton – The Dublin Dream Team (£6m)

From teenage sweethearts to one of rugby’s wealthiest pairs, Johnny and Laura Sexton have captured fans’ hearts as much as Johnny’s kicks have clinched games. Their love story began at Rathgar Tennis Club, blossoming all the way to marriage in 2013.

With three kids cheering on dad from the sidelines, the Sextons are as iconic off the field as Johnny is on it. The couple’s journey—from Saint Mary’s College to University College Dublin—stands as a testament to commitment and love.

Siya & Rachel Kolisi – The Power Couple with a Purpose (£10m)

Siya and Rachel Kolisi’s £10 million empire wasn’t just built on rugby; it’s infused with purpose. The Kolisis are widely admired for their philanthropic work, especially through the Kolisi Foundation, which uplifts underprivileged communities.

Although the couple recently parted ways, Rachel remains a key influence in Siya’s life. Now back with the Sharks after a stint in France, Siya continues to value her steadfast support. Despite the split, their legacy as South Africa’s “golden couple” lives on.

Mike & Zara Tindall – Royal Connections and Reality TV (£20m)

“Fridge” by nickname, royalty by association, Mike Tindall’s wealth and fame go beyond rugby. Married to Zara Phillips, Queen Elizabeth II’s granddaughter, Tindall has firmly planted himself in British pop culture. From breaking his nose eight times to breaking records in rugby, Mike’s career has been nothing short of resilient.

Since retirement, he’s taken his profile to new heights with appearances on shows like I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here and Bear Grylls: Mission Survive. His estimated £20 million fortune proves rugby and royalty make quite the combo.

Jonny & Shelley Wilkinson – A Hero’s Quiet Empire (£22m)

Jonny Wilkinson isn’t just a legend on the field; he’s a legend in love too. After leading England to the 2003 Rugby World Cup victory, Wilkinson has kept a low profile with his wife, Shelley Jenkins.

They wed in 2013 on the scenic French Riviera, and now with a young son, they’re embracing family life in the quiet lane. Worth £22 million, Jonny’s legacy as one of rugby’s finest is matched by his financial success and family’s privacy.

Sonny Bill & Alana Williams – The Ring, the Romance, and the Riches (£20m)

Sonny Bill Williams, the Kiwi powerhouse, is famed not just for rugby but for his ventures into the boxing ring. Known for his versatility on the field and knockout power off it, he’s carved a unique sports career.

His whirlwind romance with Alana Raffie, culminating in a four-week engagement, sparked as much intrigue as his sporting accomplishments. Now worth £20 million, the couple’s success story includes rugby, league, boxing, and plenty of endorsements.

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