Itoje warns against ‘corrosive’ social media after racist abuse of Edogbo

Guardian Sport

by Luke McLaughlin

February 19, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Maro Itoje, the England rugby captain, has issued a strong warning about the damaging effects of social media on professional athletes and society at large. Speaking ahead of his milestone 100th cap against Ireland in a crucial Six Nations match, Itoje highlighted how social media can corrode mental health and create harmful environments for players. The issue gained urgency following racist abuse targeted at Ireland’s Edwin Edogbo after his debut appearance in their win against Italy. The game marks a significant moment for Itoje, who will become only the fifth African-born player to reach 100 caps for England. This match is also pivotal for England, as they seek redemption after losing to Scotland in their previous outing. The team faces pressure to secure a victory that could bolster their Six Nations title hopes. Itoje’s comments resonate beyond sports, addressing a broader societal issue. Social media platforms often amplify negative interactions, affecting athletes’ mental well-being and performance. This has led to increased scrutiny on how online spaces impact mental health and fair competition in sports. The incident involving Edogbo underscores the challenges faced by young players entering the spotlight. Racism and abuse directed at him during his debut highlight the vulnerabilities of athletes in public discourse. Such incidents not only affect individuals but also the integrity of sports competitions, as distractions from toxic online behavior can hinder performance and team cohesion. For readers interested in sports, understanding these dynamics is crucial. It sheds light

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Originally published on Guardian Sport on 2/19/2026