In a surprising turn of events, the Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) has made an announcement that has left the choirs at the Principality Stadium in disbelief. Starting in 2023, they will no longer be able to sing the beloved anthem “Delilah”. This iconic Tom Jones song, which soared to second place on the British charts in 1968, has been a cherished crowd favorite at Wales games for years. However, it seems that its melodious notes will be absent from the Six Nations this year.
The decision to ban “Delilah” stems from the controversial nature of its lyrics, which were penned by songwriter Barry Mason. The song tells a haunting tale of a woman who meets a tragic end at the hands of her jealous boyfriend, all because he saw her with another man. While the song has undoubtedly captivated audiences with its powerful storytelling, the WRU has taken a stand against the troubling themes it portrays.
This move by the WRU comes in the wake of serious allegations made in a BBC documentary that aired in February 2023. The documentary shed light on a “toxic” culture within the WRU, with claims of sexism, racism, and homophobia tarnishing the organization’s reputation. As a result, the ban on “Delilah” was implemented to address these issues and promote a more inclusive and respectful environment within the sport.
The Principality Stadium, in a statement, made it clear that “Delilah” will no longer be featured on the playlist for choirs performing at rugby internationals. This decision follows the removal of the song from the half-time entertainment and music playlist during international matches in 2015. Furthermore, guest choirs have been instructed not to include the song in their pre-match performances or throughout the games.
Amidst these developments, Wales finds itself entering the 2024 Six Nations as a team in transition. With a significant number of retirements and injuries, 21 players in their squad have fewer than 20 caps to their name. This youthful and evolving team will face Scotland in their opening match at the iconic Principality Stadium in Cardiff on Saturday.
As the anticipation builds for the start of the Six Nations, the absence of “Delilah” will undoubtedly leave a void in the hearts of Welsh rugby fans. However, this ban serves as a poignant reminder that the WRU is dedicated to creating a safe and inclusive environment for all participants and spectators. The focus now shifts to the new generation of players, as Wales embarks on their journey in the Six Nations, hoping to make their mark in the sport’s rich history.
