The Namibia Rugby Union (NRU) and Wanderers Sports Club have both condemned an incident of racial abuse at Wanderers Sport Club over the weekend.
A spectator at the premier league match between Wanderers and Unam was evicted after making racial insults to linesman Dan Sule and both Wanderers and the NRU yesterday vowed to take further action.
“Wanderers Sports Club is aware of an incident at the grounds on Saturday, 8 August 2026, where a spectator was ejected from the premises after making unacceptable racial comments towards match officials at a rugby game hosted by Wanderers Rugby Club,” Wanderers said in an official statement.
“Wanderers Sports Club has requested the various reports from match officials, and although immediate action was taken to eject the spectator, we will be investigating further to ensure appropriate additional action is taken. We are aware of the person’s identity, and have confirmed that they are not a member of Wanderers Sports Club,” it added.
“We do not condone any form of racism, either on our premises, or elsewhere. We will always hold people accountable to this, to ensure that our club remains a family orientated environment, where everyone can enjoy playing or supporting their sport of choice, or simply a family day out.
We apologise unreservedly to the parties involved and affected by this incident and trust our prompt actions will ensure that there will be no repeat of the incident in future,” the statement read.
The NRU also brought out two statements on the incident reaffirming its zero tolerance towards racism.
“The NRU considers any form of racism, racial discrimination, harassment or behaviour that undermines the dignity of another person to be completely unacceptable,” the first statement reads.
“There is no place for racism in Namibian rugby. The NRU’s position is fully aligned with the principles and values promoted by World Rugby, which maintains a clear stance against racism and discrimination across the sport. Rugby is a global game founded on respect, discipline, integrity and inclusivity, and these principles must be reflected not only on the field but also in the stands and throughout the wider rugby environment,” it added.
Match officials need to be respected – NRU
The NRU said that match officials are an essential part of the game and that their ‘dignity, safety and professionalism’ needs to be respected.
“The NRU therefore strongly condemns any verbal abuse, racial remarks, intimidation or discriminatory conduct directed towards match officials or any other participant in our game. We acknowledge the professionalism demonstrated by the match official involved and reiterate that match officials deserve the full respect and support of the Namibian rugby community,” it said.
The NRU also vowed to take further action, saying the matter will be investigated.
“The NRU has initiated the appropriate steps to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and will review the relevant match-day reports and available information. Where misconduct is established, the NRU will ensure that the appropriate action is taken in accordance with the applicable NRU regulations, codes of conduct and relevant World Rugby standards. The Union will not tolerate behaviour that is contrary to the values of rugby or that creates an environment in which any person feels threatened, humiliated or discriminated against,” it said.
The NRU brought out a second statement, reaffirming Namibian rugby’s
diverse community and its shared passion for the game.
“That diversity is a strength. The rugby field and the rugby stadium must be places where everyone is treated with dignity and respect, regardless of race, background or identity. The NRU will continue working with clubs and competition stakeholders to strengthen the standards expected of spectators and all participants at rugby fixtures. We also encourage supporters to take responsibility for the environment they help create. Passion and strong support for one’s team are an important part of sport, but they must never cross the line into abuse, discrimination or conduct that brings the game into disrepute,” it said.
“The NRU believes that rugby has an important role to play in bringing Namibians together. Our responsibility is not only to develop players and competitions, but also to protect the values that make rugby a sport worthy of participation and support.
We therefore reaffirm our commitment to: Zero tolerance for racism and discrimination; Respect and dignity for all participants in rugby; The protection and support of match officials; A safe and inclusive environment at all rugby venues; and Upholding the integrity and values of rugby in Namibia,” added.
“The NRU thanks members of the rugby community who have expressed their concern and support regarding the incident. We call on the entire Namibian rugby fraternity to stand together against racism and discrimination and to ensure that our stadiums, clubs and rugby fields remain places of respect, unity and sportsmanship. Rugby belongs to everyone. There is no place for racism or discrimination in our game,” it concluded.
