Joe Marler latest: England international to face World Rugby misconduct hearing over 'gypsy boy' jibe
The prop abused Wales' Samson Lee during the Six Nations meeting between England and Wales
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.World Rugby has announced England prop Joe Marler will face an independent misconduct hearing for verbally abusing Wales' Samson Lee.
Marler had escaped punishment from the Six Nations for calling the Wales prop "gypsy boy" during England's 25-21 victory at Twickenham on March 12 but World Rugby has deemed action should have been taken.
A statement from the governing body read: "World Rugby has confirmed that England's Joe Marler will face an independent World Rugby misconduct hearing for comments made towards Wales' Samson Lee during the RBS 6 Nations match at Twickenham on March 12.
"World Rugby is of the view that the comments amount to misconduct and/or a breach of the code of conduct under World Rugby Regulation 20 and should have been considered by an independent process.
"In the absence of such a process by Six Nations Rugby, World Rugby is exercising its right to take appropriate action before an independent judicial committee.
"The RFU (the player's union) and Six Nations Rugby have been informed and the case will be heard by an independent judicial committee as soon as practically possible. Details will be announced in due course and the player is free to continue playing in the interim."
Marler apologised to Lee for the insult at half-time and was subsequently reprimanded by England head coach Eddie Jones, but the decision not to sanction him was met by an outcry.
The Welsh Rugby Union released a statement saying: "We stand by our belief that there is no place for the use of racist language in sport."
World Rugby stepped in and if Marler is found guilty at the independent hearing he could still face a suspension.
Verbal abuse of a player based on religion, race, colour, national or ethnic origin, sexual orientation or otherwise carries an entry-point sanction of four weeks.
PA
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments