Leicester Tigers is proud to support Premiership Rugby’s ‘Rugby Against Racism’ campaign alongside fellow clubs returning to action this weekend.
Ahead of each game during Round 14, clubs and players will show their solidarity for equality in our sport under the banner of Rugby Against Racism.
Speaking about the competition-wide initiative, Tigers Director of Rugby Geordan Murphy said: “We are honoured and proud to represent Leicester and each of the many cultures our diverse city is blessed with.
“The club has never and will never tolerate any form of racism or prejudice in our sport or our community."
Murphy also shared an insight into the conversations had among the Leicester playing group on the matter.
“This is not a political statement, as some have suggested, it is a small gesture which we believe will show that our club and our sport is united against racism,” added Murphy.
“It is not aligning ourselves to any specific organisations or leaning one way or another in our views.
“Players have a personal choice on what they choose to do ahead of Saturday’s match and I have been really proud, watching our squad discuss this matter in such a mature, honest way this week.
“What stands out, above all things, is that nobody here at Leicester Tigers believes racism is acceptable.
“This is about our game coming together and saying racism will not be accepted, in any form.”
“As a club, we do a lot of work in Leicester to open our game to every single person, no matter their skin colour, size, shape or sexuality.”
The Director of Rugby also believes the gesture is a small part of what the club and sport must continue to do to fight against racism.
“Tigers is proud to have had players and coaches represent this club from all over the world and from many, many incredible cultures and heritages,” Murphy said.
“I am so proud to be a part of a club, a sport and community in Leicester that is against racism in any form.
“A statement, a pre-game acknowledgment is also just a small part of what we must do as members of the rugby and Leicester community to educate people on why it is not acceptable.
“Rugby union is a global game and we along with Exeter on Saturday, as well as all clubs in the competition, will take the time to show that we are against racism.”
