Exeter Chiefs have launched an investigation into the alleged racist abuse aimed at former Harlequins and England wing Ugo Monye.
Former Lions star Monye claimed he was racially abused on leaving Exeter’s Sandy Park on Sunday night, after the Chiefs edged past Gloucester 25-24 in Gallagher Premiership action.
Both Exeter and Gloucester have pledged to attempt to identify the supporter accused of abusing Monye.
A lifetime ban from Exeter and even police prosecution could await any identified individual.
“Leaving Sandy Park and one supporter running through crowd starts shouting ‘N***a, n***a’, disgraceful,” Monye posted on social media site X.
“Not a single person said a word, challenged or even reported it.
“He walks off after a mild scuffle and fans are now telling me, ‘We’re with you’. B******* you’re with me. You weren’t with me when you saw and heard the most blatant racism I’ve seen from a supporter at a live game. So fed up.”
Premiership clubs Exeter and Gloucester will join forces in a bid to identify the supporter involved.
“In light of recent accusations regarding an incident of racist abuse at Sandy Park following the conclusion of our victory over Gloucester Rugby in the Gallagher Premiership, Exeter Rugby Club will be launching a full investigation,” read an Exeter statement.
“This behaviour will not be tolerated at our rugby club, and we condemn it in the strongest possible terms.
“Our team will begin to review CCTV footage from the stadium immediately in an attempt to identify the individual in question and we would like to extend our sincerest apologies to Ugo Monye, a member of the rugby community who is highly respected by everyone at our club.
“If anyone has any information regarding this incident we would ask you to get in touch with the Chiefs as soon as you can.”
League chiefs also reiterated Exeter’s zero-tolerance pledge, as the search for the alleged abuser gets underway.
“Premiership Rugby is aware of the accusations of racist abuse suffered by Ugo Monye at Sandy Park following the Exeter match against Gloucester,” read a Premiership statement.
“Premiership Rugby offers our full support to Ugo Monye and we stand united with our clubs and players in the fight against racism.
“Racism has absolutely no place in our game or society.”
