Rugby World Cup final legend referee Wayne Barnes retires

Record-setting Five days after refereeing in the Rugby World Cup final, English referee Wayne Barnes announced his retirement on Thursday, November 2, 2023.

“People often say you will know when it is the right time to retire, and this is clearly the right time for me and my family,” Barnes said in a statement released by World Rugby. “It’s been an incredible journey.”

RUGBY WORLD CUP HISTORICAL REFEREE

Between 2006 and 2023, Barnes, 44, officiated at 111 internationals, a record. He also served as an assistant referee in 92 tests and as a TMO (television match official) in three. He officiated in 27 World Cup matches, another record, including six in both 2019 and 2023.

Barnes has officiated three Champions Cup finals (2010, 2018, and 2022) and twenty-six Six Nations Tournament matches between 2007 and 2023.

“Over the past 20 years, I have been in the middle of some of the greatest rugby matches in history,” Barnes remarked. “I’ve seen some of the world’s best players and worked with some of the game’s best coaches.”

PRIVILEDGED TO REFEREE THE 2023 FINAL

“Last Saturday, I had the honor of officiating the Rugby World Cup final between two of sport’s most iconic teams: the All Blacks and the Springboks.”

“My children have missed out on time with their dad for far too long, and I am now looking forward to family weekends, sports matches, school assemblies and birthday parties.”

“I will continue to advocate for referees,” Barnes said. He went on to say he wanted “to ensure match officials across the globe not only have a collective voice but also the appropriate support network for them and their families, particularly as online abuse and threats have become far too regular for all of those involved in the game.”

BARNES WAS A VICTIM OF ABUSE.

When South Africa’s director of rugby, Rassie Erasmus, sent snarky tweets criticizing Barnes’ refereeing of France’s 30-26 victory over the Springboks last year, Barnes and his wife and children received internet threats.

Barnes was lauded by World Rugby president Bill Beaumont. “Refereeing is a difficult job, perhaps the most difficult in sports.” To be so good for so long, it takes a rare person with passion, devotion, and a strong support network.”