Sounding the alarm on racism terminated my career - Burrell

Important note: This piece contains details of racially offensive comments and behaviour

Ex-England centre Luther Burrell claims that speaking out to expose racism in rugby union led his professional journey to an early end.

In a 2022 interview, Burrell described racism as being "rife" in the game, showing Whatsapp messages and remembering training ground "comments" he had been exposed to while playing for Newcastle.

At that time 34 and out of contract, Burrell's only elite playing since has been a handful of games with invitational side the Barbarians.

"I have definitely had to retire because of what went on," he explained to media outlets.

"I really wanted to continue competing, of course I did. I sought that, and it fell through when news came out that there were inquiries underway.

"This situation was difficult - I had to simply come to terms with the fate and accept that this entire situation is a lot more important than me."

A rugby governing body report in 2023 found Burrell's claims were accurate "likely correct", but stated it could not collect enough evidence to definitively say they occurred at Newcastle.

Burrell revealed to journalists he also faced prejudice within the England team environment, during a international career that saw him win 15 caps after his debut in 2014.

"I've had multiple distressing experiences within the national team," he stated.

"Certain instances of discrimination and some just outdated thinking that's really inappropriate."

Racism had become accepted in team environments, in Burrell's view.

"This is something that has been dressed up as banter and that's been the issue that I've myself experienced and witnessed," said Burrell, who is of Jamaican heritage.

"Over a period of time you just begin to believe that it's the norm and that is acceptable and that it's not malicious, but that's nonsense."

Burrell explains he was finally motivated to go public after a fellow player at Newcastle called him as a "slave" and told him to put sunscreen on his wrists and ankles "where your shackles were."

The rugby authority said Burrell's disclosures had led to "a deeper look at the environment within the professional level and to the implementation of an strategy for the professional game."

"The organization has placed considerable focus on diversity and diversity in rugby union and a great deal of work undertaken both prior and after Luther Burrell came forward and shared his experiences of racism and classism," it added.

"We are ongoing work with teams and stakeholders in the elite level to strive for a environment of inclusivity but acknowledge this takes time and is an continuous effort."

All Premiership and women's rugby club now has in-person education on creating inclusive environments, with its effectiveness tracked via individual reports and surveys.

All England athletes, including youth squads, are trained in being "active bystanders" to intervene and defend others from harmful conduct.

"You be so proud of what you have accomplished," Burrell's mother Joyce told him as part of the film about his experiences.

"We know it has had this impact on you and finished your playing days, but in our view, you have done so well. We are so proud of you and to have you as a son."

Burrell's father Geoff passed away soon after the production of the documentary, and his sister died recently.

Burrell, who grew up on a social housing in Huddersfield, maintains his work to make the sport more accessible.

His charitable organization works to connect with children in disadvantaged communities and support them thrive both on the pitch with free sports training, mentoring and nutrition education.

"My intentions are genuine, I want to see the progress of the sport and if nobody else is prepared to share their experience then I'll continue to fight that cause because I'm not just doing this for myself," he explained.

"Everyone involved have an responsibility to make the game as excellent as it can be and the longer I speak about it perhaps the more comfortable fellow players will feel about sharing their personal experiences as well.

"I need to grab the challenge by the horns and keep bearing this banner and continue supporting this weight and do what I can to develop opportunities and make the game more appealing and more welcoming.

"There are a lot of underprivileged children and a lot of poverty and I sincerely think that rugby has the potential to change their lives, just as it did for me."