Bongi Mbonambi set to play in World Cup final as racism investigation won't end until the weekend

Bongi Mbonambi found herself at the center of a media storm this week. Photo: PA Wire/Adam Davey

South African hooker Bongi Mbonambi will be allowed to play in Saturday's World Cup final because World Rugby's investigation into his alleged racial abuse of England flanker Tom Curry will not conclude until the weekend.

Telegraph Sport reported that it was «extremely unlikely» the investigation would be completed in time for World Rugby to bring any disciplinary charges should evidence be found to support the charge against Currie during South Africa's 16–15 semi-final win that Mbonambi called him a “white c——.”

In this case, Mbonambi will face a disciplinary hearing under Law 9.12, which prohibits verbal abuse. A minimum of 48 hours of preparation will be required before a possible suspension is issued.

World Rugby's investigation is still in the evidence-gathering phase, where they are receiving material from affected parties, as well as reviewing all available audio and video footage. The speed of the investigation is determined by the speed at which evidence is provided.

The incident occurred in the 24th minute of the semi-final, shortly after Mbonambi grabbed Curry while both players were down in the semi-final. floor as the game continued. During the next stoppage, as Owen Farrell prepares to take a penalty, Curry approaches referee Ben O'Keefe and their conversation is picked up by the referee's microphone.

«Sir, sir, if their hooker calls me white with — what should I do?» asks Curry.

O'Keefe replies, «Nothing, please.» He then adds: «I will be involved in this,» although it is unclear whether this refers to Curry's complaint, but he does not take any action against Mbonambi.

Meanwhile, the episode continues to rile social media, where Curry has been bombarded with insults and threats. «I don't understand that because of what someone does on a rugby field they are threatened,» said Alex Sanderson, director of rugby. «It's disgusting. It's out of order. I don't know the modern world. I'm not on social media for that reason. This is the worst part of the world we live in.»

Mbonambi has not yet officially responded to the accusation , but when contacted, a South African Rugby spokesman said: «We are aware of the allegation, which we take very seriously and are reviewing the available evidence. We will contact Bongi if anything is found to support this allegation.»