The Welsh deaf rugby teams had to pay extra to move to a hostel after being provided with substandard accommodation during the World Cup in Argentina.
Both the men’s and women’s teams from Wales were crowned World Deaf Rugby Sevens World Cup champions in Cordoba.
However, pictures from the accommodation they were initially provided showed mattresses with holes and stained pillowcases, prompting the teams to seek alternative accommodation.
The Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) expressed full support for the team’s decision to change accommodation. Tyrone Hughes, the chairman of the Wales Deaf Rugby Union, described the situation as “a joke.”
He explained that the players had to be moved out of the original accommodation and into a hotel, incurring additional costs. As amateur players, the expenses were not covered for them, and they had to rely on their own payments or sponsorships to participate in the World Cup.
“The accommodation was shocking. When I was sent the photos, I thought it was a joke,” Hughes said in an interview with BBC Radio Wales Breakfast.
Despite the challenges faced by the teams, they went on to achieve success in the tournament, showcasing their determination and resilience in the face of adverse conditions.