World Cup Final Referee Wayne Barnes Retires After Record 111 Tests Amidst Online Threats and Abuse

Renowned official Wayne Barnes wraps up a historic career in international rugby after facing significant online harassment following the World Cup final; Barnes will continue to advocate for referees and work towards a better support system against online abuse.

Wayne Barnes, the most experienced referee in international rugby history, has announced his retirement from refereeing after receiving online abuse and death threats following the World Cup final.
Having officiated 111 Test matches since 2006, Barnes made history as the first referee to send off a player in a World Cup final, following a high tackle by New Zealand's captain Sam Cane.
Barnes has flagged concerns about a culture of online vitriol in sports, vowing to continue advocating for referees and working with the International Rugby Match Officials Association to create better support systems against online abuse.
Despite retiring, Barnes' influence on rugby will continue as he has officiated in five Rugby World Cups, 26 Six Nations matches, three European Champions Cup finals, and 10 Premiership finals, and was named World Rugby's referee of the year in 2019.
Tributes poured in for Barnes upon the announcement of his retirement, with World Rugby chairman Bill Beaumont describing him as a 'truly fantastic ambassador for rugby' and praising his dedication, commitment, passion and love for the sport.