SA Rugby Issues Apology for 'Regrettable' Haka Disruption.

Rugby General

SA Rugby Issues Apology for 'Regrettable' Haka Disruption.

The South Africa Rugby Union has apologized to New Zealand for the "highly regrettable" disruption during the haka before their Rugby Championship match on Saturday in Johannesburg.

Traditionally, opponents stay silent during the haka as a sign of respect. However, at Emirates Airline Park, the haka was interrupted by music, fireworks, and an A380 flyover due to "timekeeping challenges" and "simple human error," according to SA Rugby chief executive Rian Oberholzer.

Oberholzer has personally apologized and also sent a formal letter of regret to the New Zealand Rugby Football Union.