Eben Etzebeth breaks silence, accepts guilt after 12-week ban
The Springbok Lock details the ‘unintentional’ action behind his suspension
Katlego Sekhu
Springbok lock Eben Etzebeth has spoken publicly for the first time since receiving a 12-week suspension from World Rugby for an incident involving Wales flank Tommy Reffell.
In a detailed statement shared on social media, Etzebeth accepted full responsibility for his actions. While he expressed regret, he said he wanted supporters to understand the circumstances that led to the controversial moment.
“I have been quiet, but now that my hearing is done I think I owe everyone an explanation,” he wrote.
Etzebeth did not shy away from accountability.
“This is not a post to show that I was not guilty. I accept guilt. I made a mistake and I am willing to serve a suspension which I deserve.”
He added that he felt a duty to the younger fans who look up to the Springboks.
“I do not want young kids to think that it is OK to eye gouge someone, because it is not. Unfortunately, mistakes happen and I made a big one for which I am sorry.”
Etzebeth used a series of videos to outline the context of the scuffle, insisting that the dangerous contact was unintentional and influenced by several factors beyond his control.
He explained that the altercation had “basically ended” when the Wales No. 7 struck him with an open hand to the chin and neck area. Etzebeth said he looked to the assistant referee for a reaction, received another pull on his jersey, and then reacted with what he described as “a similar type of action.”
According to him, the first point of contact from his hand was the opponent’s shoulder. He said the movement of other players changed the dynamics of the moment.
“You will see two Welsh players changing the entire picture, as well as one of my teammates pulling Wales No. 7 around his neck away from my hand and where my force is going.”
He referred to additional camera angles that, in his view, support the lack of intent behind the contact.
The Springbok star emphasised that he would never deliberately attempt an act that could endanger another player.
“I would never do something like this on purpose. I know what the consequences will be after playing rugby for a few years.”
He noted that this was the first red card of his professional career, adding: “I want it to be my last.”