I am so sorry, says racist insult Telford rugby player

A rugby player found guilty of making a racist comment during a Shropshire derby game today apologised for his behaviour.

Martin Rudd, who plays for Telford Hornets, said he made a comment to an opponent during the match against Market Drayton RFC in 'the heat of the moment'.

He has been suspended for 18 weeks. The Hornets centre was penalised after an RFU disciplinary panel hearing last night.

He has apologised to the team, his family, and the fans, for his behaviour.

"I am sorry for the embarrassment I have caused to the game I love, my club, and to my family and myself," he said.

"I made a comment during the heat of the moment that I accept has no place on a rugby pitch and which I immediately was sorry for. I wish to apologise to the player I offended and to Market Drayton as a club for my conduct which fell below the standards expected of all rugby players."

Rudd added: "I accept that rugby is a sport for all. I am grateful to Telford RFC for the support they have given me throughout my career and hope that I can be given the chance to play again sometime in the future.

"I am determined to learn from my mistake, in the meantime I will accept my punishment and again apologise for my behaviour."

Mark Dorey, Telford Hornets' press officer, said the club had spoken to Rudd about his behaviour and that it expected he would act more professionally in future.

"The RFU's suspension reinforces the internal disciplinary action we took against Martin on the day of the incident," he said.

"His suspension means that Martin will not be able to play for us again this season."

He added: "Martin is deeply remorseful and he has apologised profusely for the embarrassment he has caused the club, the game of rugby, his family and himself."

The Hornets game against Market Drayton RFC on January 29 was abandoned before being completed and the panel ruled that the match would be recorded as a 0-0 draw.

See also:

• Rugby player found guilty of race abuse during match

• Rugby race row player is charged after game abandoned