Team GB Athlete Under Investigation for Alleged Racist WhatsApp Message
A Team GB Olympic athlete is under investigation after an alleged racist WhatsApp message was leaked online. The British Olympic Association (BOA) is investigating the alleged remark made by Team GB rugby sevens star Amy Wilson-Hardy during a conversation with an unnamed party on WhatsApp.
The Leaked Message
A leaked screenshot of the conversation has been widely shared on social media during the Olympic Games in Paris. The screengrab shows Wilson-Hardy, 32, appearing to wear a dark-colored face mask, with an unnamed party replying: “Genuine chocolate face.”
Wilson-Hardy allegedly replied: “Thought I’d have a better chance with the blacks.”
Investigation and Response
The BOA has confirmed that it is investigating the matter. A spokesperson for the BOA told SPORTbible: “The British Olympic Association has been made aware of an image published on a social media platform and is investigating the matter.”
The Rugby Football Union (RFU), which governs rugby in England, has also been contacted for comment.
Wilson-Hardy is now being investigated ahead of Team GB facing China in the matches to determine the fifth to eighth rankings.
Background
Wilson-Hardy was part of Team GB’s rugby sevens squad that finished fourth at the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro. She returned to the side for the 2024 Games in Paris.
She helped Team GB beat Ireland and South Africa in the group stage to secure a place in the quarter-finals, where they lost 17-7 to the United States at the Stade de France on Monday.
Implications and Consequences
The investigation could have significant implications for Wilson-Hardy’s Olympic career. If she is found to have made the alleged racist remark, she could face disciplinary action from the BOA, the RFU, or both organizations.
The incident has also sparked widespread criticism and condemnation on social media, with many calling for Wilson-Hardy to be held accountable for her alleged actions.
It remains to be seen what the outcome of the investigation will be, but the allegations have cast a shadow over Team GB’s Olympic campaign.
