WRU statement: Anti-social behaviour at Wales vs All Blacks game

WRU officials have joined a police appeal for further information following an alleged anti-social behavior incident at last Saturday’s Wales versus All Blacks match at the Principality Stadium. A statement regarding the stadium level six incident read: “The Welsh Rugby Union and Principality Stadium is supporting South Wales Police’s appeal for witnesses to an incident which occurred during the Wales rugby match against New Zealand at Principality Stadium last weekend.

“Stadium staff have, of course, handed over all CCTV footage taken in the area concerned and stewarding support staff have provided relevant information where possible, but we fully support this new appeal for any further footage supporters may possess.”

WRU CEO Steve Phillips saidL “The Welsh Rugby Union joins South Wales Police in their appeal for further information and footage of the incident.

“We thank our stewards and responding officers on the scene for responding so quickly and our thoughts are with the innocent individual affected and his family. We condemn the behaviour of those involved and deeply regret the incident on Saturday and wish the individual a speedy recovery.

“I cannot comment further on the incident given the ongoing police investigation but once that investigation is complete, arrangements which ensure those found to be responsible will not be welcomed back to Principality Stadium will follow.

“Anti-social behaviour of any kind has no place in Welsh rugby and whilst this isolated incident has no bearing on the majority of supporters who attend games at Principality Stadium, we reiterate our appeal to supporters to enjoy themselves responsibly this Saturday whilst attending the Argentina match and during the games that follow.”

The WRU statement added: “The Principality Stadium operations team works hard on the culture and atmosphere associated with a matchday experience in Cardiff. New initiatives have been introduced this season with school choirs and a new playlist of Welsh music just some of the new additions.

“In 2019 the WRU made permanent the alcohol-free zone, which remains an option for families and supporters who don’t wish to be around alcohol on a matchday, and we have also launched more recent appeals – both on matchdays and in the lead-up to games – to supporters, in general, to be respectful of those around them.”