RFL supports action on social media abuse

The RFL have released a statement supporting action taken by the governing bodies of Association Football in demanding stronger action from social media companies over the online abuse of sportspeople.

In the statement, the RFL also welcome the Government’s pledge to change the law, making those companies more accountable for what happens on their platforms.

They also recognise such abuse has happened within the sport of rugby league. The RFL called such abuse “unacceptable”.

The RFL have also announced a plan to help combat the abuse, which they have called TACKLE IT Rugby League versus Discrimination.

This will set out how the game will extend its reach and appeal, diversify its talent pool, improve its culture and actively deal with all forms of discrimination.

TACKLE IT is a sport-wide commitment by the RFL, Super League, Championship and League 1, Rugby League Cares and RLWC2021.

The statement is ended urging supporters to report any comment of a hateful nature based on ace, colour, gender, nationality, ethnicity, disability, religion, sexuality, sex, age or class to compliance@rfl.co.uk.