Rugby ref Nigel Owens is to make history this week – when he referees as the Rugby World Cup final.

The Welsh referee, who is openly gay, was confirmed to be the referee for this Saturday’s World Cup final, between Australia and New Zealand.

Owens said: “This is a huge honour and a privilege for me. I am humbled to have been chosen to referee the Rugby World Cup final.

“This is my third World Cup, and I think it has been the best. It has been inspirational.

“The quality of rugby on display has been incredible in front of packed venues, and so to be given the opportunity to referee the final match between the best two teams in the tournament is an amazing honour.

“I would like to thank World Rugby and the Welsh Rugby Union for their support over many years.

“There have been so many individual people throughout my career who have helped and supported me along the way, and while I can’t name everyone here, I will be thanking everyone personally in due course.

“I want to thank my friends and family for their ongoing support and for helping me through some rough times in my life.

“My dad, in particular, is always there for me and is delighted with this news – it’s just a shame my mother is not here to see this as she was a pillar of strength for me.



“She passed away six years ago, and I know she would have been very proud.”