On December 16, former Wales backs coach Rob Howley was suspended for 18 months for allegedly placing bets on over 1000 matches over a four-year period of time. The former assistant coach of the Welsh rugby union team admitted to breaching anti-corruption and betting regulations, accepting the punishment.
In a statement provided by Howley, he apologized, explaining, “I would like to take this opportunity to apologize to all those close to me and everyone this has affected, especially the rugby community, close colleagues and above all my family.”
Howley had already been disciplined by the independent disciplinary panel that was appointed by the Welsh Rugby Union (WRU). This came after he admitted to multiple offenses of the World Rugby Anti-corruption and Betting Regulations. Of his 18 month ban, nine were suspended.
According to the allegations, from November 2015 through September of this year it was discovered that the former assistant coach had placed 363 bets on Rugby Union games using accounts with Betway, William Hill and Ladbrokes. Many of these bets were placed using his mobile device, which was provided to him as part of his role as an assistant coach. Others were made using his WRU email address.
According to Howley, gambling had become a “demon” in his life. In the statement, he explained, “I am an extremely private man, and unfortunately, it was this that kept me silent as I battled my demons following my sister’s tragic death. The last few months have been immensely tough, and continued help will allow me to find the right path back to rugby which has always been my true passion. I am immensely grateful for the faith and support I’ve received from everybody close to me.”
The panel did acknowledge Howley’s willingness to cooperate with the investigation, stating “I feel it is important for me to reiterate a number of the key facts that were highlighted and proven during the investigation: ‘Mr. Howley acknowledged his breach of the regulation at the first available opportunity, that he has demonstrated deep-felt and genuine remorse, that he has an exemplary character and an exemplary disciplinary record (both as a player and coach).”
They also wanted to ensure that it was made clear that in no way had the former assistant coach provided confidential information in his official capacity. “There was no suggestion of dishonesty or misuse of confidential information involved.”
He will be eligible to be re-instated in the sport in June, 2020.
