Referee Wayne Barnes called for authorities to punish individuals who were guilty for the “vile” abuse that occurred in the days following the Rugby World Cup final, saying it “crossed the line.”
After a record-breaking career in which he officiated more than 100 Test matches, Englishman Barnes has announced his retirement from the game.
In the All Blacks’ 12-11 loss to South Africa in the Paris final last month, Barnes got rid of New Zealand captain Sam Cane, ending his career as a referee.
Barnes stated in his retirement speech that the abuse officials were now exposed to was intolerable, and his wife, Polly, has claimed that her husband was threatened with death following the conclusion.
The 44-year-old, who is a licensed barrister, has now described the harassment he has experienced, including threats against his family, and emphasized that things will only get worse.
Barnes told the BBC, “People who threaten your wife and children should be held accountable and punished.”
“Sexual violence threats and declarations that we are aware of your residence. That boundary is crossed.
“Social media is becoming worse, which is the unfortunate part about the sport right now. It hasn’t happened just once.
“There are several reasons why I use social media. One is to highlight my philanthropic endeavors and to encourage officiating, emphasizing how challenging the job is and making it seem more approachable.
“It’s my decision, and it gives others the opportunity to spread hateful and violent messages.”
Prior to the competition, World Rugby announced a collaboration with Signify Group to combat player and official harassment on social media.
Still, a number of people—including England flanker Tom Curry—had to cope with threats they received via the internet.
Curry faced mistreatment following his claim that South African hooker Bongi Mbonambi had called him a racist.
Ben O’Keeffe, a referee from New Zealand, was similarly criticized for his handling of France’s quarterfinal elimination against the Springboks.
Barnes questions if individuals who instigate abuse ought to be permitted to participate in the sport at all.
“Why should you be allowed to be involved in the rugby family if you’re a fan at your local rugby club and you’re making threats and sending nasty messages to people’s families?” he posed.
“When that abuse affects my family is the part I’ve always struggled with and will continue to fight with.
“I want legislation addressing what social media sites can do to prevent it, I want prosecuting agencies to think about ways to do that, and I also want governing bodies to think about what they can do.”
