WRU faces allegations of sexism and discrimination following BBC investigation

The Welsh Rugby Union has faced allegations of sexism and discrimination, with MP and former Welsh international Tonia Antoniazzi expressing “great concern” about women’s playing in the country.

a Former WRU staff have made claims about their time on the Governing Body and are involved in an investigation presented by BBC Wales on Monday evening.

Charlotte Wasan, who was the general manager of women’s rugby until she resigned last February, claimed her colleagues’ offensive comments had brought her to tears and made her feel sick, while another unnamed participant complained of workplace abuse. He said he was contemplating suicide because of his experiences of bullying and sexism. BBC Wales investigates.

There have also been allegations of racism and homophobia.

The WRU said it had reached an “amicable settlement” with Wasan “satisfactory for both parties” after an investigation by an outside law firm. He said details were blocked by a non-disclosure agreement between the parties.

He said another complaint would be investigated and later withdrawn, and new information in the publication would be “tracked and necessary action taken.”

A spokesperson said: ‘Rugby Union of Wales condemns the use of racist, homophobic or sexist language and racist, homophobic, sexist or violent language in Welsh rugby. I am stating in the strongest terms possible that there is no room for such behavior.”

The statement continued:

“This due diligence obligation remains. We are deeply concerned about the impact of this program on these individuals, as the results of an extensive independent legal investigation resulted in unsubstantiated allegations.”

But Antoniazzi, who once played for Wales as a supporter, now represents the Gower constituency and is the shadow minister for Northern Ireland’s Labor Party, remains offended by the comments.

He compares the evidence to the cricket-based racism scandal that followed Aseem Rafiq’s allegations against Yorkshire, and believes an independent body may be needed to account for Welsh sports bodies.

“It’s on the same level as cricket. We are very concerned about the future of women’s rugby in Wales.

“If there is a problem with the Governing Body, the Welsh Sporting Governing Body, an independent body should be set up to investigate all complaints. There should be a place to go.”

In response to comments, WRU said: