Sounding the alarm on racism ended my career - Luther Burrell

Important note: This piece contains details of discriminatory language and behaviour

FormerEngland centre Luther Burrell claims that speaking out to reveal racism in rugby union led his career to an premature conclusion.

In a 2022 interview, Burrell described racism as being "rife" in the sport, displaying Whatsapp messages and recalling training ground "comments" he had been exposed to while playing for Newcastle.

At that time 34 and out of contract, Burrell's only elite playing since has been three appearances with invitational side the Barbarians.

"I've have absolutely had to retire because of what went on," he told reporters.

"I really wanted to continue competing, naturally I did. I sought that, and it collapsed when word came out that there were inquiries underway.

"This situation was challenging - I had to just come to terms with the outcome and understand that this entire situation is a lot bigger than me."

A sports organization investigation in 2023 found Burrell's allegations were true "likely correct", but stated it could not collect enough evidence to categorically say they occurred at Newcastle.

Burrell told media he also faced prejudice within the England set-up, during a international career that saw him earn 15 appearances after his debut in 2014.

"I've had several distressing experiences within the national team," he stated.

"Some discrimination and other just outdated thinking that's really unacceptable."

Racism had become accepted in dressing rooms, in Burrell's experience.

"It's something that has been disguised as humour and that's been the issue that I've personally experienced and seen," said Burrell, who is of Jamaican heritage.

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

Burrell explains he was eventually spurred to go public after a team-mate at Newcastle referred to him as a "slave" and told him to put sun cream on his arms and legs "where your shackles were."

The rugby authority said Burrell's disclosures had led to "a deeper look at the environment within the elite game and to the introduction of an action plan for the professional game."

"We has placed considerable attention on inclusion and diversity in the sport and a great deal of work undertaken both before and after Luther Burrell spoke publicly and revealed his experiences of racism and classism," it continued.

"We are ongoing work with clubs and partners in the professional game to work for a culture of acceptance but acknowledge this takes time and is an ongoing process."

All Prem and PWR club now has in-person training on building inclusive environments, with its effectiveness tracked via specific documentation and surveys.

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

"You be so pleased of what you have accomplished," Burrell's mother Joyce told him as part of the film Luther Burrell - Rugby, Racism and Redemption.

"I know it has had this impact on you and finished your playing days, but in our view, you have achieved so much. We are so proud of you and to have you as a son."

Burrell's father Geoff died soon after the filming of the film, and his sister died recently.

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

His 12 Foundation works to connect with children in disadvantaged communities and support them succeed both on the pitch with complimentary sports coaching, guidance and nutrition education.

"My personal intentions are genuine, I want to see the evolution of the sport and if others is willing to tell their story then I'll continue to advocate for that fight because I'm not just pursuing this for myself," he said.

"We have an responsibility to make the game as great as it can be and the more I talk about it hopefully the more confident others will feel about discussing their personal stories as well.

"I need to grab the challenge by the opportunity and keep carrying this flag and keep carrying this responsibility and do what I can to develop opportunities and make the sport more appealing and more welcoming.

"There's a lot of disadvantaged young people and a lot of poverty and I sincerely think that rugby has the potential to change their futures, just as it did for me."