A South African man who used the n-word in the vicinity of former England rugby star Ugo Monye at Sandy Park has been found not guilty of a public order offence.
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What happened?
Angus Beukes, 32, made the comment after Exeter Chiefs’ Premiership clash with Gloucester on November 19, 2023. Monye, working as a commentator at the game, was leaving for his taxi when he heard a man with a South African accent repeatedly using the racial slur.
Monye later described feeling “extremely shocked” by the incident.
Court verdict
Beukes, a mechanic who represented himself via video link from South Africa, denied any wrongdoing. He claimed he was speaking to a female friend, also South African, and insisted that the word is acceptable in their home country.
Magistrates ruled in his favour, concluding that prosecutors failed to prove Beukes knew the term was offensive in the UK.
Presiding justice Paul Doyle explained:
- The n-word was directed at Beukes’ friend.
- Beukes had little social interaction outside his South African community while in the UK.
- Independent witnesses supported claims that the word was used in a private exchange.
However, Monye maintained that the slur was used multiple times, even after he remonstrated with Beukes.
A divisive ruling?
The decision has already sparked debate, with some arguing that ignorance of UK social norms should not be a defence. Others believe the ruling highlights the complexities of cultural differences in language use.
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Bookmakers have released their predictions for the British & Irish Lions’ starting XV to face Australia in the 2025 tour, highlighting a squad dominated by Irish talent and featuring only one English starter.
The anticipated lineup, along with the latest odds for each position, is as follows:
Forwards
1. Andrew Porter (Ireland) – 1/2
A converted loosehead prop who started his career as a tighthead, Porter is a cornerstone of Ireland’s pack with his powerful scrummaging and relentless work rate around the pitch.
2. Dan Sheehan (Ireland) – 3/10
One of the most dynamic hookers in world rugby, Sheehan offers explosive ball-carrying ability and strong set-piece play. He has become a key figure in Ireland’s recent successes.
3. Tadhg Furlong (Ireland) – 8/13
Arguably the best tighthead prop in the game, Furlong is known for his scrummaging dominance and remarkable skills in open play, often moving like a back despite his size.
4. Maro Itoje (England) – 1/5
The only Englishman in the starting XV, Itoje is a world-class lock with exceptional athleticism, lineout expertise, and a knack for disrupting opposition attacks. A Lions veteran, he’ll be vital for the tour.
5. Joe McCarthy (Ireland) – 1/2
A rising star in Irish rugby, McCarthy has made a huge impact with his physicality and work rate in Leinster’s second row. He’s quickly becoming a dominant force in European rugby.
6. Josh van der Flier (Ireland) – 1/3
The 2022 World Player of the Year, Van der Flier is an outstanding openside flanker with relentless tackling, breakdown skills, and an ability to pop up in crucial moments.
7. Ben Earl (England) – 4/9
England’s standout forward in recent tournaments, Earl’s dynamic ball-carrying, high work rate, and speed make him a perfect fit for the Lions’ back row.
8. Caelan Doris (Ireland) – 1/4
One of the best No.8s in world rugby, Doris combines intelligence, strength, and leadership. His ball-carrying ability and defensive prowess make him an essential selection.
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The post Man accused of racially abusing Ugo Monye learns his fate appeared first on Ruck.
