Sharks player Bongi Mbonambi has issued a public apology to female referee Aimee Barrett-Theron for his “disrespectful” conduct in the game against the Lions on Saturday, 2 March.
The KwaZulu-Natal-based player – who is also a Springbok – captained the URC game in the absence of Lukhanyo Am.
The Lions won the game 40-10 on home turf at the Emirates Airline Park stadium in Johannesburg. In a post-match interview, Bongi seemingly shifted some of the blame on the ref for the club’s dismal loss.
BONGI MBONAMBI APOLOGY – RUGBY FANS ARE NOT BUYING IT
In a statement posted on the Sharks social media pages, Bongi Mbonambi reflected on his actions towards referee Aimee Barrett-Theron. He also acknowledged the team’s poor performance in the season.
He said: “As players, we have to take a hard look at ourselves after this result. We cannot blame anyone else and have a lot of hard work ahead of us.
Addressing the ref, he continued: “I am an all-in type of player, and sometimes my emotions get the better of me. I have full respect for officials and the role they play in our sport.
“It was never my intention to come across as rude or difficult. I apologised to the referee at half-time and meant absolutely no disrespect.”
While Bongi’s apology may have been heartfelt, many were not convinced it was authentic
@polar_roach: “Bongi definitely didn’t say or write that. But worth the try.”
@labani_anderson: “Surely ChatGPT wrote this!”
@ruanvandenheever: “Bongi is probably seeing this for the first time, like the rest of us”
WATCH: WHAT DID REF SAY TO PLAYER?
Throughout the Sharks vs Lions game, rugby fans accused Bongi Mbonambi of being unnecessarily rude towards referee Aimee Barrett-Theron. This includes claims he walked away when she spoke, interrupted her, and questioned her decisions on the pitch.
In a clip that went viral on social media, the 36-year-old seemed to have had enough of the player’s attitude,
She can be heard saying: “Bongi, may I speak please? Listen, I fully respect you and who you are, and I am well aware that all of your players have probably played more games than I have refereed in the URC.
“But we are on the same field, so if you could show me the same respect that I show you, that would be very much appreciated.”
