World Cup final referee Barnes announces retirement

Wayne Barnes become the first referee to send off a player in a World Cup final, after guidance from a bunker review

England's Wayne Barnes has announced his retirement from refereeing following his appearance in last Saturday's Rugby World Cup final.

The 44-year-old sent off New Zealand captain Sam Cane for a first-half high tackle, before South Africa won 12-11.

Barnes will continue to "advocate for referees" following reports he received death threats after the final.

In a statement, he added: "I will work closely with the International Rugby Match Officials' association 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 made his Test debut refereeing Fiji against Samoa in June 2006 and went on to take charge of a record 111 Tests, which included officiating at five World Cups.

"Over the past 20 years, I have been in the middle of some of the greatest rugby matches in history. I have seen some of the world's best players and worked with some of the finest coaches the game has ever produced," he added.

"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.

"My wife, Polly, has sacrificed more than anyone so that I have been able to achieve some of my personal goals."

Barnes refereed in 17 Six Nations tournaments, three European Champions Cup finals and 10 Premiership finals.

He was also named World Rugby's referee of the year in 2019.

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