The RFL and Betfred release statement following criticism of comments about Dom Young

The Rugby Football League and Betfred have released a statement in which they have apologised to England winger Dom Young and head coach Shaun Wane over a recent interview that was released online.

Former Sky Sports presenter Eddie Hemmings carried out an interview with Wane on Betfred’s Twitter page in which he discussed players he had selected in his squad for the World Cup.

Comments made by Hemmings around winger Young, who was born and grew up in England but is of Jamaican descent, drew criticism as his nationality was compared to other players in the squad, however, the Newcastle Knights star appeared to be labelled differently.

Betfred, who are England’s main sponsors for the tournament, released a statement on their Twitter page on Thursday afternoon.

It reads: “This morning Betfred have apologise in person to both Shaun Wane and Dom Young with regard to a recent interview ahead of the Rugby League World Cup, of which a clip was re-edited and appeared on social media on Wednesday night. As a partner we would like to reaffirm our commitment to all staff and players in all of the England squads, and we are extremely proud to be involved in the most inclusive World Cup ever.”

The RFL followed: “The culture, identity and heritage of our players and staff representing England at this year’s World Cup is a source of pride for Rugby League in this country. The Rugby League community is diverse, and we feel strongly about using the Rugby League World Cup as a platform to celebrate that diversity.”

RFL Board statement (2/2)

The Rugby League community is diverse, and we feel strongly about using the Rugby League World Cup as a platform to celebrate that diversity.

— Rugby Football League (@TheRFL) October 6, 2022