Johnny Sexton states that the racist harassment aimed at Munster second row Edwin Edogbo will have overshadowed his debut for Ireland.
Sexton captained Ireland from 2019 until his retirement in 2023, earning 118 caps during his career.
Edogbo, who was born and raised in County Cork to Nigerian parents, faced online abuse after he came off the bench in Saturday’s 20-13 Six Nations victory over Italy in Dublin.
“It’s distressing to witness that in this day and age such behavior still persists,” Sexton remarked to reporters on Tuesday.
“Regarding his well-being, I believe he’s doing fine; I don’t think he would have focused too much on it. He’s quite a humble individual, really composed.
“However, the remarks made are unacceptable. I empathize with him and his family. It has tarnished what should have been a memorable day for him.”
The Irish Rugby Football Union (IRFU) has announced that it is looking into the abuse.
Information from PA contributed to this report.
