In a shocking turn of events, renowned English television match official (TMO) Tom Foley has decided to step down from officiating international rugby, citing online abuse and death threats received in the aftermath of the Rugby World Cup final. The final, held in Paris at the end of October, saw South Africa clinch a narrow 12-11 victory over the All Blacks, a match marked by three yellow cards and the historic first-ever World Cup final red card shown to All Blacks captain Sam Cane.
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Foley, who officiated as the TMO in the intense final, revealed the unsettling abuse he faced, prompting his decision to withdraw from international duties. His departure follows closely on the heels of the final’s match referee, Wayne Barnes, who opted for a complete retirement from officiating.
Expressing his sentiments on the matter, Foley stated, “Having reached the pinnacle in officiating at the Rugby World Cup Final, now feels the right time to take a break from the international game. Over the course of 13 years, I have been fortunate to officiate alongside many dedicated professionals and be involved in some of the greatest games in international rugby.”
He continued, “However, the pressure and scrutiny I came under after the Rugby World Cup Final, along with a torrent of criticism and abuse online, has helped to reaffirm that this is the right decision for me at this point in my life.”
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Foley emphasized the toll that increasing levels of vitriol took on him, particularly when the demands and expectations were exceptionally high. “Working as an international match official takes you away from home for extended periods, and I am looking forward to spending more time at home with my young children.”
Acknowledging the support of his family throughout his career, Foley expressed gratitude, saying, “I am very grateful to my family for their support during my career; without them none of it would have been possible.”
The Rugby Football Union (RFU) CEO, Bill Sweeney, thanked Foley for his exceptional contribution to international officiating, expressing strong disapproval of the abuse suffered by Foley and other officials involved in the World Cup final. Sweeney stated, “The abuse he has suffered since the Rugby World Cup Final, along with other officials involved in that game, is totally unacceptable and no one should be treated in this way, doing their job for the sport they are so committed to and passionate about.”
Sweeney emphasized the commitment of the RFU to combatting abuse in the sport, urging everyone in the rugby community to uphold the values of the game. While Foley steps back from international officiating, he will remain an integral part of the RFU Professional Game Match Officials Group, ensuring that the sport continues to benefit from his extensive experience domestically.
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