**Welsh U20 Rugby Team Under Investigation Following Alleged Misconduct at Italian Hotel**
The aftermath of the recent World Rugby U20 Championships has been overshadowed by serious allegations about the conduct of Wales’ under-20 players during their stay in Italy. According to an official statement released by Hotel Capital in Rovigo, where the squad resided during the tournament, a series of incidents unfolded which have prompted an internal investigation by the Welsh Rugby Union (WRU).
Reports first surfaced within Italian media, detailing a chaotic turn of events shortly after Wales played their final match in Rovigo over the weekend. It is alleged that a number of the young athletes were involved in disruptive behaviour within the city centre, including storming the stage at a local festival, urinating in public, stealing a microphone, and overturning furniture. These actions, if confirmed, present a troubling picture of off-field discipline.
The WRU was quick to address the matter, explaining in a statement that they are “aware of the alleged events” and have started an inquiry. The union emphasised that a full, formal response would follow once all facts have been established, highlighting their commitment to due process.
Meanwhile, Hotel Capital, located just south of Venice, expanded on their concerns by publishing a detailed statement that directly named problematic behaviours. The hotel described some team members as “disrespectful” of the venue’s standards, recounting how players were seen wandering barefoot and without proper attire in communal areas, in direct violation of house rules and much to the discomfort of fellow guests.
The hotel’s management detailed further complaints, reporting property damage during the team’s stay. Among the incidents noted were broken bicycles, the forced entry and resultant breaking of electric door locks, as well as noticeable damage to a meeting room provided for the squad’s exclusive use, including holes left in walls and general untidiness. Similar damage was also found in several bedrooms occupied by the team, it is alleged.
Disturbances were not limited to property. The hotel statement recounted that loud music was played late into the night and shouting could be heard in corridors, impacting other guests’ comfort and safety. In a further charge, the hotel’s proprietor, Mr Federico Mercuri, stated that no compensation or damages had yet been paid by the WRU in relation to the reported destruction.
Hotel Capital’s statement further explained: “The boys have been disrespectful with the rules that we have in the hotel. We confirm that they walked barefoot and without shirt and trousers in front of the other hotel guests. They asked us about the bikes we have, but after a couple of times we found the bikes broken.”
While these allegations are yet to be substantiated through the WRU’s internal inquiry, the accusations have sparked significant discussion regarding player conduct and the importance of maintaining organisational discipline whilst representing one’s country abroad. Observers have noted that such incidents can have a lasting effect on public perceptions of both the individuals and the governing body.
The Wales U20 side, led by Richard Whiffin, finished the tournament in eighth place after being defeated 31-23 by the hosts. On the pitch, the team managed only one win in five outings, but this final result has been overshadowed by the controversy surrounding their behaviour away from the rugby field.
As the WRU continues its investigation, the rugby community awaits further updates. Regardless of the outcome, this episode underscores the ever-present need for professionalism and responsibility, both on and off the international sporting stage. The Welsh Rugby Union’s next steps will be closely followed and may set important precedents for how similar incidents are handled in future.