England flanker Tom Curry alleged South Africa hooker Bongi Mbonambi called him a “white c***” during Saturday’s World Cup semi-final.
The incident occurred just before the half-hour mark in Paris and Curry's claim was caught on referee Ben O’Keeffe's microphone.
Curry was heard saying to O’Keeffe: “Sir if their hooker calls me a white c***, what do I do?”.
O’Keeffe replied: “Nothing please,” then later added, “I’ll be on it.”
Governing body World Rugby cannot comment on the incident due to the open window for either team to file any complaints from the match, or for officials to make any disciplinary citings.
The citing window remains open for 36 hours after the final whistle, and England are able to make a complaint on the issue if they choose.
Springboks hooker Mbonambi refused to shake Curry’s hand after the final whistle in Paris, where England suffered an agonising 16-15 defeat.
South Africa clawed back from a 15-6 deficit to edge England out and book a World Cup final showdown with New Zealand.
Leicester fly-half Handre Pollard booted the last-gasp penalty to inch South Africa past an inspired England, who so nearly produced the perfect gameplan at the Stade de France.
England launched a desperate attack with the game’s final play after Pollard wrestled South Africa the lead, only for a knock-on to thwart their last roll of the dice.
The full-time whistle sparked some tussles between both sets of players in the middle of the field, with Mbonambi then refusing to shake Sale flanker Curry’s hand.
Curry later admitted an incident had taken place during the match with Mbonambi – but refused to go into details.
Asked if the Springboks hooker had said something untoward, Curry replied: “Yeah.”
Refusing to elaborate on any detail, Curry admitted the issue went unresolved on the night.
Asked if it had been cleared up, Curry replied: “No. It doesn’t need to be talked about.”
When pressed again, Curry added: “Listen, I’m not talking about it now.”
A South Africa spokesperson said on Sunday morning: “We are aware of the allegation, which we take very seriously, and are reviewing the available evidence. We will engage with Bongi if anything is found to substantiate the claim.”
Speaking on Sunday morning, Springboks forwards coach Deon Davids insisted he did not know about the issue.
“I’m not aware of that, I’m not aware of any comment, if it was discussed,” said Davids.
“I’m not sure what the comment was, or when it was said. I don’t know.”
