Blowing the alarm on racism terminated my professional journey - Luther Burrell

Warning: This article includes descriptions of discriminatory language and conduct

Ex-England player Luther Burrell says that going public to expose racial discrimination in professional rugby led his professional journey to an early conclusion.

In a June 2022, Burrell characterized racism as being "widespread" in the sport, displaying digital communications and recalling training ground "comments" he had been exposed to while representing Newcastle.

At that time 34 and out of contract, Burrell's only professional rugby since has been a handful of games with invitational side the Barbarians.

"I have absolutely had to end my career because of what happened," he told media outlets.

"I really wanted to carry on playing, of course I did. I sought that, and it fell through when word came out that there were inquiries going on.

"This situation was difficult - I had to simply come to terms with the outcome and accept that this whole situation is a lot more important than me."

A rugby governing body investigation in April 2023 found Burrell's claims were accurate "on the balance of probability", but stated it could not collect enough proof to categorically say they occurred at Newcastle.

Burrell revealed to journalists he also encountered discrimination within the England team environment, during a Test career that saw him win 15 caps after his first game in February 2014.

"I have had several 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"Some discrimination and some just outdated thinking that's really unacceptable."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.

"This is something that has been disguised as humour and that's been the issue that I've personally suffered and witnessed," said Burrell, who is of Jamaican descent.

"Over a period of time you just learn to think that it's the standard and that is fine and that it's not harmful, but that's incorrect."

Burrell explains he was finally motivated to speak out after a team-mate at Newcastle referred to him as a "slave" and instructed him to put sunscreen on his arms and legs "where your shackles were."

The governing body said Burrell's revelations had led to "increased scrutiny at the culture within the elite game and to the introduction of an strategy for the professional game."

"We has given significant attention on diversity and inclusion in the sport and a substantial amount of work undertaken both prior and after Luther Burrell came forward and revealed his encounters of racism and class discrimination," it added.

"The organization are continuing work with clubs and partners in the elite level to strive for a culture of inclusivity but recognize this requires patience and is an continuous effort."

Every Prem and PWR club now has in-person training on creating inclusive environments, with its success tracked via specific documentation and surveys.

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

"You be so proud of what you have done," Burrell's mother Joyce said to him as part of the film about his experiences.

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

Burrell's father Geoff passed away soon after the production of the film, and his sibling died recently.

Burrell, who grew up on a council estate in Huddersfield, continues his work to make the sport more accessible.

His 12 Foundation works to reach young people in under-served communities and support them succeed on and off the pitch with complimentary sports training, mentoring and dietary education.

"My personal motivations are genuine, I want to see the evolution of the sport and if others is willing to tell their experience then I'll continue to advocate for that cause because I'm not just doing this for my own benefit," he explained.

"We have an obligation to make the sport as great as it can be and the longer I talk about it perhaps the more confident others will feel about sharing their personal stories as well.

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

"There are a lot of underprivileged children and a lot of poverty and I sincerely believe that rugby has the potential to transform their futures, just as it did for me."