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Cape Town - A former South African flag linked with white supremacy was confiscated at the Westpac Stadium on Saturday.
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It was unfurled at a player entrance tunnel during the Springboks' 36-34 shock win over the All Blacks in Wellington.
Retired in 1994 following the abolition of apartheid, it's seen as highly offensive by many South Africans due to its association with the apartheid era. Many have called for its use to be made illegal.
Stadium staff were instructed to have it removed following an outcry on social media.
"Our attention was bought to the flag via South African fans on social media," Westpac Stadium CEO Shane Harmon told Newshub.
"We didn’t initially recognise the flag, but with some quick reference checking we were able to ascertain that it was the pre-1994 South African flag.
"We understand the flag is from the apartheid era and offensive to many South Africans and as a result, we asked the patrons to remove it."
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Harmon confirmed there'd be no further repercussions for the flag's owner.
"We'll take further advice for future events, but our assessment at the time was that the flag was not illegal but had potential to cause offence. We acted appropriately when it was brought to our attention.
"We've had flag protocols for many visiting teams and events over the years but this particular one has never been brought to our attention.
"Now that we know what it is we'll be more vigilant for it in the future."
This is so pathetic. Leaving SA then flying the old flag at a Bok game. We must be part of the solution, not the problem! pic.twitter.com/PRmAjdpYuM
— Sitdown Comedian (@BouwerBosch) September 15, 2018
