South African rugby stalwart Eben Etzebeth has broken his silence following a controversial eye-gouging incident, issuing a detailed apology on Instagram after receiving a 12-week ban.
The 33-year-old lock received the suspension after an independent disciplinary panel ruled he “intentionally” made contact with Mann’s eye during the Springboks’ dominant 73-0 victory over Wales at the Principality Stadium.
In an Instagram post, Etzebeth expressed profound regret for the incident, describing it as a “big mistake” whilst maintaining his innocence regarding intentional foul play.
“I want to apologise to everyone for this incident,” Etzebeth wrote. “It was a big mistake, but it was not intentional. I’ve let people down, and I’ve let the game down.”
The veteran second-row emphasised the significance of the red card, noting it marked the first dismissal of his distinguished senior career. “This was my first red card in my senior career, and I pledge it will be my last,” he stated.
Etzebeth’s acknowledged his responsibility as a role model for aspiring young players who look up to the Springboks.
“I don’t want young fans to think this behaviour is acceptable,” he explained. “Eye-gouging is completely wrong, and children who watch us should understand that.”
The Shark’s hard man stressed the importance of maintaining rugby’s values and setting proper examples for the next generation of players.
Etzebeth provided his perspective on the sequence of events that led to the controversial moment, accompanied by previously unseen video footage to support his explanation.
According to him, he was initially struck by Mann on the chin and neck area during a scuffle and waited for the assistant referee to intervene before responding. He claimed his intention was to strike Mann’s shoulder with an open hand, but the involvement of other players and movement during the altercation altered the angle of his hand, inadvertently causing contact with the Welsh player’s eye.
“I aimed for his shoulder, but with other players involved and the movement, the angle changed,” Etzebeth explained. “I understand how it looks on replay, but I ask for understanding of my perspective.”
Despite the controversy, several Springbok teammates demonstrated their solidarity by engaging positively with Etzebeth’s Instagram post. Players including Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, RG Snyman, Grant Williams, and Vincent Tshituka showed their support.
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The World Rugby disciplinary panel ultimately rejected Etzebeth’s claims that the contact was accidental, ruling that he had “intentionally” made contact with Mann’s eye area. The 12-week suspension reflects the seriousness with which rugby authorities treat such incidents.
Etzebeth concluded his statement with a commitment to learning from this experience and ensuring such incidents never occur again in his career.
“I accept the guilt and express my remorse, but I maintain this was not deliberate,” he said. “I’m committed to ensuring this never happens again and to being a better example for the sport I love.”
