‘Zero tolerance’ crackdown on abuse of rugby referees as threats rise

The guidance covers five categories: disrespecting the official’s authority, verbal abuse, using threatening words or actions, making physical contact and physical abuse. Photograph: Russell Cheyne/Reuters

The Rugby Football Union has issued referees with guidance on dealing with threats such as “I’m going to punch your lights out” and “I’m going to smash your car up” as part of a crackdown on the abuse of match officials for the new season.

Amid a significant rise in incidents of abuse at all levels and fears of a shortage of referees in the lower leagues and grassroots game, the RFU has contacted all referee societies and disciplinary panels, emphasising the need for a “zero tolerance” approach.