Australian nightclub doorman Allan Teli has withdrawn a complaint about racism against Springbok captain John Smit, South African Rugby said on Thursday.
It said he has done so in writing.
Teli on Sunday laid a formal complaint against Smit, accusing the Springbok captain of having used a racist slur against him in a Sydney bar.
Smit has denied the charge.
In an SA Rugby statement, Smit expressed relief that the matter has been put to rest.
He thanked his Springbok teammates and the coaching staff for their support in the matter.
”The past few days were very unpleasant, but I was able to get through it thanks to the wonderful support I received from everyone,” Smit said.
”I must also note the special support from [SA Rugby president] Mr Brian van Rooyen. The way people rallied around me was fantastic.”
SA Rugby chief executive Johan Prinsloo said there is no need to continue the union’s probe into the allegations.
”Racial abuse is a very serious offence, especially in South Africa. On receipt of the complaint, we immediately launched an investigation in order to get to the heart of the matter,” Prinsloo said.
”We never doubted the outstanding character and integrity of John Smit and we are all glad that this hurtful allegation has proven to be totally untrue.”
Springbok coach Jake White praised the manner in which Smit has handled the whole incident.
”I really felt for him the past few days, but he has the sort of character that will make him an even better person because of what he has endured,” White said. — Sapa