Defiant fans filmed singing Delilah despite Welsh Rugby bosses’ ban decision

04 February 2023 , 22:58

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A number of Welsh fans still sang Delilah outside the Principality Stadium (Image: Getty Images)

A group of defiant Welsh rugby fans were seen singing the chant 'Delilah' despite the Welsh Rugby Union banning the song earlier this week.

The WRU announced on Wednesday that Tom Jones' iconic song would no longer be sung by Wales' pre-match choir or played over the stadium tannoy during games. The decision was made due to the song's links with domestic violence and abuse.

The 1969 classic has been ever-present in Wales' pre-match routine at the Principality Stadium for some time, but was booted off the match day playlist ahead of Wales' Six Nation clash with Ireland on Saturday.

A statement on the decision read: "Delilah will not feature on the playlist for choirs for rugby internationals at Principality Stadium. The WRU removed the song from its half-time entertainment and music play list during international matches in 2015.

"Guest choirs have also more recently been requested not to feature the song during their pre-match performances and throughout games. The WRU condemns domestic violence of any kind.

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"We have previously sought advice from subject matter experts on the issue of censoring the song and we are respectfully aware that it is problematic and upsetting to some supporters because of its subject matter."

In spite of the ban, groups of Wales fans were making sure their match day traditions were carried out, with the song bellowed out by many in the streets of Cardiff before entering the stadium in the capital.

Prior to Warren Gatland's team's defeat to Ireland, many were quick to criticise the decision.

Former scrum half Mike Phillips was one of those to hit out, as he took to Twitter to label the ban 'crazy'. He wrote: "So what happens if 77,000 people do start singing Delilah? Crazy." The criticism comes after a turbulent week for the WRU.

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As well as their controversial Delilah ban, the governing body saw their former CEO Steve Phillips resign amid accusations of harbouring a toxic culture, characterised by sexism and misogyny.

A recent BBC investigation involving former employees unearthed the culture, which forced Phillips out of his job.

Following his departure, he said: "It is with a huge amount of regret that I have decided to hand in my resignation. I have always had the best interests of Welsh rugby at the heart of my every action and thought, but have come to the conclusion that it is now time for someone else to lead the way." The former CEO has since been replaced by Nigel Walker.

Joshua Lees