Sounding the whistle on racism ended my career - Burrell

Warning: This article includes descriptions of discriminatory comments and conduct

FormerEngland player Luther Burrell says that speaking out to expose racism in rugby union led his professional journey to an premature conclusion.

In a June 2022, Burrell described racism as being "rife" in the sport, showing Whatsapp messages and recalling training ground "jokes" he had been subject to while representing Newcastle.

Then 34 and out of contract, Burrell's only professional rugby since has been three appearances with guest team the Barbarians.

"I have definitely had to retire because of what occurred," he told media outlets.

"I really wanted to carry on competing, naturally I did. I sought that, and it fell through when word came out that there were investigations underway.

"That was difficult - I had to just accept the fate and accept that this whole situation is a lot more important than me."

A sports organization report in 2023 found Burrell's claims were true "likely correct", but stated it could not collect enough evidence to categorically say they happened at Newcastle.

Burrell revealed to media he also encountered discrimination within the England set-up, during a Test career that saw him earn 15 appearances after his first game in February 2014.

"I have had multiple traumatic experiences within England camp," he said.

"Some discrimination and some just outdated thinking that's really unacceptable."

Racism had become normalised in team environments, in Burrell's experience.

"It's something that has been dressed up as humour and that's been the problem that I've myself suffered and seen," said Burrell, who is of Jamaican heritage.

"During a extended period you just learn to believe that it's the standard and that is fine and that it's not malicious, but that's incorrect."

Burrell explains he was eventually motivated to go public after a fellow player at Newcastle called him as a "slave" and instructed him to put sun cream on his arms and legs "where chains would be placed."

The governing body said Burrell's revelations had led to "a deeper look at the environment within the professional level and to the introduction of an action plan for the elite level."

"We has placed significant focus on diversity and diversity in rugby union and a great deal of work undertaken both before and after Luther Burrell came forward and revealed his encounters of racism and class discrimination," it added.

"The organization are continuing work with teams and stakeholders in the professional game to strive for a culture of acceptance but acknowledge this requires patience and is an continuous effort."

All Prem and PWR club now has face-to-face education on building inclusive environments, with its success tracked via specific documentation and feedback.

All England players, including youth squads, are trained in being "active bystanders" to step in and protect others from damaging conduct.

"You should be so proud of what you have accomplished," Burrell's mother Joyce told him as part of the documentary Luther Burrell - Rugby, Racism and Redemption.

"We know it has had this effect on you and ended your playing days, but in our eyes, you have achieved so well. We are so impressed of you and to have you as a family member."

Burrell's father Geoff passed away soon after the filming of the film, and his sibling passed away earlier this year.

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

His 12 Foundation works to connect with children in disadvantaged communities and help them thrive on and off the pitch with complimentary sports training, mentoring and dietary education.

"My personal intentions are genuine, I want to see the progress of the game and if others is prepared to share their experience then I'll continue to advocate for that fight because I'm not just doing this for myself," he said.

"We have an responsibility to make the game as excellent as it can be and the longer I talk about it hopefully the more confident fellow players will become about sharing their personal stories as well.

"I take the challenge by the opportunity and continue carrying this flag and keep carrying this weight and do what I can to create opportunities and make the game more attractive and more inclusive.

"There are a lot of disadvantaged children and a lot of poverty and I honestly think that the sport has the potential to transform their lives, just as it transformed things for me."