Luther Burrell Alleges Systemic Racism Forced Early Rugby Retirement

Ex-England international Luther Burrell claims speaking out against racial discrimination in rugby union prematurely ended his career, despite governing body reforms.

By Chris Posiano

October 14, 2025 at 2:00 AM

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Former England rugby star Luther Burrell has stated that his decision to expose widespread racism within the sport led to the abrupt end of his professional career. The 36-year-old, who earned 15 caps for England between 2014 and 2016, went public in 2022 with allegations of racial slurs and derogatory "banter" during his time at Newcastle Falcons and within national team environments.

"Normalized" Discrimination and Career Fallout

Burrell revealed in a Mail on Sunday interview that teammates once referred to him as a "slave" and made offensive remarks about his Jamaican heritage, including telling him to apply sunscreen "where your shackles were." Despite initially dismissing such comments as locker-room humor, Burrell said the cumulative effect became unbearable. "Racism was dressed up as banter, but it’s harmful nonsense," he told BBC Sport.

After his contract with Newcastle expired in 2022, Burrell attracted no further professional offers beyond three appearances with the Barbarians invitational team. "Clubs backed away once investigations began," he claimed. A 2023 Rugby Football Union (RFU) report confirmed his experiences were credible but cited insufficient evidence to formally sanction Newcastle.

RFU Reforms and Legacy Efforts

The RFU acknowledged Burrell’s revelations spurred mandatory diversity training across Premiership clubs and "active bystander" programs for England squads. However, Burrell emphasized systemic change remains slow: "We have an obligation to make rugby inclusive. If others won’t share their stories, I’ll keep fighting."

Now focused on his 12 Foundation, Burrell provides free coaching and mentorship to underprivileged youth. "Rugby transformed my life growing up in Huddersfield. It can do the same for others if we break down barriers," he said.

His advocacy has drawn personal pride from family members, including his late mother Joyce, who praised his courage in the BBC documentary Luther Burrell - Rugby, Racism and Redemption: "You’ve done so well. We’re proud you’re our son."