Share

Sonny Bill gets no-logo wish granted

Wellington - All Blacks star Sonny Bill Williams was on Wednesday given permission to wear a special Blues jersey with no bank advertisements in line with his religious beliefs, after he covered a sponsor's logo at the weekend.

Williams, a devout Muslim, appeared for the Blues during Saturday's loss to the Highlanders with the Bank of New Zealand (BNZ) logo on his collar blocked out by tape.

His action took New Zealand Rugby (NZR) and the Blues by surprise, prompting discussions this week with Williams and his management.

NZR said it was accommodating Williams' "conscientious objection" by allowing him to wear a Blues jersey with no branding from BNZ or Investec, Super Rugby's main sponsor in New Zealand.

"Williams has now clarified his preference is not to wear logos from banks, alcohol brands and gambling sponsors on his team uniform," it said in a statement.

Williams' logo cover up was prompted by Islam's objection to usury - earning high interest from loans.

NZR said Williams had no concerns about AIG, the All Blacks' shirt sponsor, because it is an insurance company.

However, the US giant's latest financial accounts show it has a commercial mortgage portfolio of $25bn, upon which it levies market interest rates in the same manner as BNZ or Investec.

Williams said his stance was "nothing personal" against the finance firms, but reflected a wish to feel comfortable as he developed a deeper understanding of his religion.

"So while a logo on a jersey might seem like a small thing to some people, it is important to me that I do the right thing with regards to my faith and hope that people respect that," he said.

New Zealand Prime Minister Bill English questioned Williams' behaviour this week, saying he did not understand why one player should be treated differently to his team-mates.

However, NZR general manager of rugby Neil Sorensen said it was an issue of faith.

"Sonny holds clear religious beliefs in relation to this matter and we respect those," he said.

"Conscientious objections need to be genuine, and we believe this is."

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
26% - 1273 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
29% - 1470 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2249 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE