RFU council member resigns after discriminatory comments about Alphonsi
2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 9, 2026, 8:17 AM
Last updated Jun 9, 2026
Matthew Smith has resigned from his position as a council member of the Rugby Football Union after facing disciplinary action for posting discriminatory remarks about Maggie Alphonsi. His Facebook post questioned Alphonsi's knowledge of men's rugby during France's win over England in March. Following a seven-month suspension and removal of privileges, Smith apologized but was criticized by the RFU's women in leadership collective for the leniency of his punishment. They claimed it highlighted a disconnect between the RFU's commitment to combating discrimination and actual enforcement of those principles. The RFU is undergoing governance reforms to address issues of sexism and misogyny within the sport.
- •Matthew Smith resigns from RFU council position.
- •Smith posted discriminatory comments about Maggie Alphonsi on Facebook.
- •He received a seven-month suspension prior to resigning.
- •Alphonsi expressed disappointment with the disciplinary actions taken.
- •RFU governance reforms are underway to address sexism issues.
- 8:17 AMYahoo Sports — RFU council member resigns over Alphonsi post
- 8:17 AMBBC Sport — RFU council member resigns over Alphonsi post
"Rugby Football Union council member Matthew Smith resigns after posting discriminatory criticism of television pundit Maggie Alphonsi.
"Rugby Football Union council member Matthew Smith resigns after posting discriminatory criticism of television pundit Maggie Alphonsi.
Sources
External links- Yahoo SportsJun 9, 2026, 8:17 AMRFU council member resigns over Alphonsi post
Rugby Football Union council member Matthew Smith resigns after posting discriminatory criticism of television pundit Maggie Alphonsi.
- BBC SportJun 9, 2026, 8:17 AMRFU council member resigns over Alphonsi post
Rugby Football Union council member Matthew Smith resigns after posting discriminatory criticism of television pundit Maggie Alphonsi.
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