Andy Farrell Weighs In on England Anthem Debate as Maro Itoje Declines to Sing

11/20/2024 08:47 AM

The debate around England's iconic rugby anthem Swing Low, Sweet Chariot continues to spark controversy.

While Ireland head coach Andy Farrell reminisces about its role in English rugby culture, England star Maro Itoje has chosen to distance himself from the song, citing its troubling origins.

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Maro Itoje Takes a Stand
Speaking to French newspaper L'Equipe, the England lock revealed his personal decision to stop singing the anthem, which he once embraced without understanding its history.

"I'm not going to tell people what they should or shouldn't do but, personally, I won't sing this song anymore," Itoje explained. "I sang it before when I was naive and didn't know its origins, but knowing now the context in the creation of Swing Low, Sweet Chariot, it's not an anthem that I'm going to repeat anymore."

Despite his choice, Itoje was quick to point out that he doesn't believe in banning the song, allowing fans to decide for themselves whether to keep it alive in Twickenham's stands.

RFU Reviews the Song's History
Itoje's comments follow an assessment by the Rugby Football Union (RFU), which examined the song's roots after concerns about its historical context were raised. While Swing Low, Sweet Chariot has become synonymous with England rugby, the RFU recognized that many fans remain unaware of its origins as an American slave spiritual. Written around the 1860s by Wallace Willis, a slave in the United States, the song was a heartfelt expression of hope and longing for freedom.

Farrell Reflects on Its Cultural Role
Andy Farrell, now leading Ireland's rugby team, offered a contrasting view. The former England assistant coach spoke fondly of the anthem's significance during his time with the team, viewing it as a unifying symbol for players and fans alike.

"It was part of our identity, this is part of English rugby," Farrell said. "You know, wherever you are around the world with England rugby, you would hear it and you feel like people of the country are behind you."

How 'Swing Low' Became a Rugby Anthem
The anthem first resonated with rugby crowds in 1987, when Martin “Chariots” Offiah lit up the Middlesex Sevens tournament with his electric pace, sparking fans to chant the song in celebration. The following year, it gained even more traction during England's match against Ireland, where Chris Oti's hat-trick inspired a spirited rendition from the stands.

Over the years, Swing Low, Sweet Chariot became a staple of Twickenham's matchday experience, beloved by fans for its rousing melody and emotional resonance. However, as awareness of its origins has grown, so too has the debate about whether it remains appropriate as a symbol of English rugby.

How the British & Irish Lions XV would look right now, zero Welshmen included

As the Autumn Nations Series unfolds, we assess how the British & Irish Lions would line up based on current form, with key players from England, Ireland, and Scotland leading the charge as they prepare for the upcoming challenge in Australia.

Fullback

Hugo Keenan (Ireland)
Keenan's consistency under the high ball and his sharp counter-attacking ability make him the perfect fit for the British & Irish Lions’ fullback spot. After his excellent performances this autumn, it's hard to look beyond the Irishman for a starting role in the upcoming Lions tour to Australia.

Right Wing

Immanuel Feyi-Waboso (England)
Despite being relatively new on the scene, Feyi-Waboso has made waves this autumn with his pace and attacking flair. His try-scoring instincts make him an exciting prospect for the Lions as they look for a cutting edge on the wing.

Centre

Garry Ringrose (Ireland)
Ringrose is in excellent form this autumn, showing off his vision, defensive solidity, and dynamic attacking capabilities. He's a perfect fit for the Lions' centre spot, offering leadership and experience in the midfield.

Inside Centre

Sione Tuipulotu (Scotland)
Tuipulotu's robust ball-carrying and defensive prowess make him the ideal partner for Ringrose in the centres. His ability to break the gainline and make those powerful runs could be the key to unlocking opposition defences on tour.

Left Wing

Duhan van der Merwe (Scotland)
Van der Merwe has shown his usual strength and finishing ability during the autumn internationals. His power and ability to shrug off tackles could prove crucial for the Lions as they look to dominate in Australia.

Fly-Half

Marcus Smith (England)
Smith has been a standout for England, showcasing his playmaking flair and ability to control the game from fly-half. He brings the attacking vision the Lions need in Australia, with an added sense of unpredictability.

Scrum-Half

Jamison Gibson-Park (Ireland)
The Irish scrum-half has been in electric form, displaying speed, accuracy, and intelligence. His quick service and sharp decision-making make him the ideal candidate to guide the Lions’ attack in the Southern Hemisphere.

Loosehead Prop

Andrew Porter (Ireland)
Porter has been a dominant force in the scrum, and his all-around work ethic makes him one of the best looseheads in the northern hemisphere. Expect him to anchor the Lions’ front row with power and precision.

Hooker

Jamie George (England)
George continues to impress with his lineout accuracy and leadership. His work at the breakdown and his ability to control the pace of the game make him an indispensable figure in the Lions’ pack. Plus, his experience on previous tours to New Zealand and South Africa will be invaluable.

Tighthead Prop

Tadhg Furlong (Ireland)
One of the best in the world, Furlong's scrummaging and carrying ability make him the cornerstone of the Lions’ forward pack. His technical skill is unrivalled, and his form this autumn has only reaffirmed his place as a starter.

Lock

Maro Itoje (England)
Itoje's dynamic work at the lineout and his physicality in open play make him a must-pick for the Lions. His presence in the engine room would give the Lions a physical and mental edge in Australia.

Lock

Joe McCarthy (Ireland)
McCarthy has shown tremendous potential this autumn, displaying both physicality and technical accuracy. His combination of strength and mobility gives the Lions a second-row option who can excel at the set-piece and in open play.

Blindside Flanker

Chandler Cunningham-South (England)
Cunningham-South has impressed with his work rate, ball carrying, and defensive capabilities. His versatile skill set makes him a standout player in the back row and an ideal choice for the Lions’ blindside.

Openside Flanker

Josh van der Flier (Ireland)
Van der Flier has been everywhere this autumn, showing his tireless work rate and tackling ability. A strong performer at the breakdown, he would be vital for the Lions to slow down Australia's ball and disrupt their attack.

Number Eight

Caelan Doris (Ireland)
Doris has been in exceptional form, blending power with finesse in attack and defence. His ability to carry the ball and link play would make him an ideal choice as the Lions’ number eight on tour.

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