The former player: 'I wanted to continue my rugby career'
Important note: This piece contains details of racially offensive language and conduct
FormerEngland player Luther Burrell states that speaking out to expose racial discrimination in rugby union led his professional journey to an premature conclusion.
In a June 2022, Burrell characterized racism as being "widespread" in the sport, showing digital communications and recalling training ground "jokes" he had been exposed to while playing for Newcastle.
Then 34 and without a team, Burrell's only elite playing since has been three appearances with guest team the Barbarians.
"I've have absolutely had to retire because of what happened," he told media outlets.
"I really hoped to continue competing, of course I did. I sought that, and it collapsed when news came out that there were inquiries going on.
"This situation was difficult - I had to just accept the fate and accept that this entire process is a lot more important than me."
A rugby governing body investigation in 2023 found Burrell's allegations were accurate "on the balance of probability", but stated it could not collect enough proof to categorically say they happened at Newcastle.
Luther Burrell played in all of England's international games in 2014 and 2015, but was controversially excluded for their team for the 2015 tournament
Burrell revealed to media he also faced discrimination within the England team environment, during a international career that saw him earn 15 caps after his first game in 2014.
"I have had several distressing experiences within the national team," he said.
"Certain instances of discrimination and other just outdated thinking that's really unacceptable."
Racism had become accepted in dressing rooms, in Burrell's view.
"It's something that has been disguised as banter and that's been the issue that I've personally experienced and witnessed," said Burrell, who is of Jamaican heritage.
"Over a extended period you just learn to believe that it's the standard and that is fine and that it's not malicious, but that's incorrect."
Burrell explains he was finally motivated to speak out after a fellow player at Newcastle called him as a "slave" and told him to put sun cream on his wrists and ankles "where your shackles were."
The rugby authority said Burrell's disclosures had led to "increased scrutiny at the culture within the elite game and to the implementation of an action plan for the elite level."
"The organization has placed significant attention on inclusion and inclusion in the sport and a substantial amount of work undertaken both before and since Luther Burrell spoke publicly and revealed his experiences of racism and classism," it added.
"The organization are continuing work with clubs and partners in the professional game to strive for a environment of acceptance but acknowledge this takes time and is an continuous effort."
All Prem and PWR club now has in-person education on creating inclusive environments, with its success tracked via specific documentation and feedback.
All England athletes, including youth squads, are trained in being "engaged observers" to intervene and defend others from damaging conduct.
"You be so proud of what you have done," Burrell's mother Joyce told him as part of the documentary about his experiences.
"We know it has had this effect on you and finished your career, but in our view, you have done so well. We are so impressed of you and to have you as a family member."
Burrell's dad Geoff passed away shortly after the production of the documentary, and his sister died recently.
Burrell, who grew up on a council estate in Huddersfield, continues his work to make the sport more open.
His 12 Foundation works to reach children in under-served communities and support them thrive on and off the pitch with complimentary sports training, guidance and nutrition education.
"My intentions are pure, I want to see the progress of the game and if others is willing to tell their experience then I'll continue to fight that fight because I'm not just pursuing this for my own benefit," he explained.
"We have an obligation to make the sport as great as it can be and the more I speak about it hopefully the more confident fellow players will feel about discussing their personal stories as well.
"I grab the challenge by the opportunity and continue carrying this flag and continue carrying this weight and do what I can to develop opportunities and make the sport more appealing and more welcoming.
"There are a lot of disadvantaged young people and a lot of economic hardship and I honestly believe that rugby has the potential to transform their lives, just as it did for me."
Burrell scored a try for the Barbarians on a comeback to former club Northampton in late 2022
