Amy Wilson-Hardy, a player for Team GB rugby sevens, has withdrawn from the Paris 2024 Olympic Games on medical grounds.
According to Daily Mail, Amy Wilson-Hardy has stepped down from the upcoming Olympic Games amid an investigation into an alleged racist message posted on social media.
The British Olympic Association (BOA) is currently investigating a WhatsApp conversation allegedly involving Wilson-Hardy where a potentially racist comment was made. The message, posted on Instagram, has sparked significant controversy and led to Wilson-Hardy's withdrawal from the Games.
The BOA announced that Wilson-Hardy has withdrawn from the Olympic Games on medical grounds. The investigation revolves around a WhatsApp message allegedly posted by Wilson-Hardy, which was later shared on Instagram. The message features a screenshot showing Wilson-Hardy wearing a dark-colored facemask and allegedly making a racist comment.
Wilson-Hardy had participated in Team GB's 17-7 quarter-final defeat to the United States on Monday. Following the controversy, she has also withdrawn from the placement matches at the Games. A statement from the BOA confirmed her withdrawal and announced that Tokyo 2020 Olympian Abi Burton will replace her.
The leaked screenshot, which shows Wilson-Hardy wearing a facemask, allegedly includes the comment: "Thought I'd have a better chance with the blacks." The BOA is investigating this comment and its context. Mail Sport revealed the initial post, which has drawn considerable attention.
The WhatsApp conversation allegedly involves Wilson-Hardy and an unnamed third party. The third-party reportedly wrote "genuine chocolate face," to which Wilson-Hardy allegedly responded with the controversial comment. The image was posted on Instagram with a caption highlighting the racist nature of the comment.
Abi Burton, who is set to replace Wilson-Hardy, played in Britain's 19-15 loss to China in their 5-8 placing match on Tuesday afternoon. Wilson-Hardy had previously started in Team GB's 26-17 win over South Africa. She also played twice on Monday, including in the 17-7 defeat to the United States.
Wilson-Hardy has been a significant player for Team GB, having made her England debut in 2013. She has accrued 10 England caps and scored 40 points throughout her career. Her achievements include winning a bronze medal at the 2018 Commonwealth Games and being named to the 2017 Women's Rugby World Cup squad.
In addition to her sporting achievements, Wilson-Hardy has a degree in engineering from Bath University. Despite her contributions to the team, her recent actions have overshadowed her career. The Rugby Football Union (RFU) has been contacted for comment regarding the situation.
A spokesperson for the BOA commented on the situation, stating:
The British Olympic Association has confirmed that Amy Wilson Hardy has been withdrawn on medical grounds from the rugby sevens placement matches and will be replaced by Tokyo 2020 Olympian Abi Burton.
Another statement from the BOA highlighted the ongoing investigation:
The British Olympic Association has been made aware of an image published on a social media platform and is investigating the matter.
Amy Wilson-Hardy, a player for Team GB rugby sevens, has withdrawn from the Paris 2024 Olympic Games on medical grounds amid an investigation into an alleged racist message posted on social media. The British Olympic Association (BOA) is looking into a WhatsApp conversation involving Wilson-Hardy where a potentially racist comment was made. Fueled by a leaked screenshot and comments, the controversy led to her withdrawal from the Games and placement matches. Tokyo 2020 Olympian Abi Burton will replace her.
