"Special measures" - England stars racially abused against Argentina

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Although England Rugby filed an official complaint, a detailed investigation by the Unión Argentina de Rugby concluded that the individuals responsible could not be identified.

“On 15 July, World Rugby received an official complaint from England Rugby regarding racist abuse directed at their players by spectators during the Argentina v England match in San Juan on 12 July,” World Rugby said in a statement.

“There is no place in rugby or society for discrimination, abuse or hate speech, and any complaint of discrimination is taken extremely seriously by World Rugby, and an immediate and thorough investigation was undertaken, involving witness statements, video analysis, and other lines of enquiry.

“While it is clear that an incident took place, we regret that the individuals responsible could not be identified.

“Working with World Rugby, the Union Argentina de Rugby has developed an action plan to enhance their operations, educate fans and better prevent such unacceptable incidents from occurring again.”

President of the Unión Argentina de Rugby Gabriel Travaglini said in a statement: “From the Unión Argentina de Rugby, we strongly condemn all acts of racism and stand in solidarity with the England Rugby players who felt aggrieved.

“Upon learning of the incidents, intense efforts were made to identify the small group of 5 or 7 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 collaboratively with World Rugby to educate the fans and eradicate any similar manifestations in the future, ensuring that our events are spaces of respect and inclusion for everyone.”

Here are the Lions who proved everyone wrong—and then some.

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Before the first Test, plenty were questioning Andy Farrell’s loyalty to Tom Curry and Tadhg Beirne. Both had struggled to impress during the warm-up games, and many thought their best days were behind them.

Farrell stuck to his guns. And it paid off.

Curry was a force of nature—getting on the scoresheet early and showing off his full skillset in Sheehan’s try, where he started the move and finished it with the final pass. Add in some huge defensive shots and dominant breakdown work, and he looked every bit the world-class openside.

Beirne matched him blow for blow. Over 20 tackles, relentless aggression, and breakdown pressure that disrupted everything in gold. His engine just doesn’t stop.

Two men under pressure. Two colossal performances. Farrell’s faith was rewarded in full.

Curry silenced doubters with a standout display, highlighted by a slick line-out grab and assist for Dan Sheehan’s try early in the second half. He racked up 8 carries, 11 tackles, and a try himself, despite clearly favouring an injured arm.

But when it came time to bask in the praise, Curry wasn’t interested.

“I don’t know what world-class is. It’s such a cliche thing, isn’t it? The thing is to win, and I don’t really care what label you put on it. I gave everything, and that’s all I ask for from myself,” he told reporters — and that was about it.

The usually media-friendly flanker cut a short, no-nonsense figure. Job done. No chit-chat needed.

"Too risky", "not mature enough", "more style than substance"—Marcus Smith heard it all in the build-up.

But once the Tests began, he shut it all down.

The Quins fly-half showed maturity beyond his years, managing the game smartly, picking his kicks brilliantly, and still finding space for flashes of brilliance. His decision-making has improved massively, and he looked right at home at this level.

This tour might be the turning point in Smith’s career—from talented prospect to genuine Lions mainstay.

Owen Farrell’s inclusion sparked predictable backlash. Critics claimed he was only there because of his surname. Some questioned if he even deserved a squad place.

But as always, Farrell just got on with business.

He’s been a model pro throughout camp—mentoring the younger players, setting standards, and quietly pulling strings behind the scenes. Ahead of the first Test, Finn Russell admitted he was struggling with his kicking until Farrell offered a few calm words. Result? Russell didn’t miss a single kick.

Farrell’s rugby brain was also on full display when he immediately spotted Huw Jones’ disallowed try as a no-go—while the rest of the team were still celebrating.

Now leading the midweek team, he’s proving once again why he’s one of the most respected leaders in the game. Still got it. Still setting the tone.