England rugby captain Maro Itoje has condemned the racist abuse directed at Ireland lock Edwin Edogbo and Real Madrid's Vinicius Jr, calling social media a "corrosive" force in sport. Edogbo, born in County Cork to Nigerian parents, faced online attacks following his Six Nations debut in Ireland's 20-13 victory over Italy, prompting an investigation by the Ireland Rugby Football Union.

Itoje, who is set to make his 100th appearance for England against Ireland at Twickenham, warned athletes about the dangers of social media engagement. "It's very dangerous, not only for the negativity but even when it is positive it can be corrosive," he said. The British and Irish Lions skipper emphasized that while athletes need social media presence for their careers, they should limit their exposure to avoid the platform's harmful psychological effects.

The abuse of Vinicius Jr during a UEFA Champions League match earlier this week has also drawn widespread condemnation. Itoje noted that while such incidents are "terribly sad" and require full-force condemnation, they also indicate progress in how society addresses racism. "30 years ago that probably wouldn't have even made the press," he observed, suggesting that increased visibility of these incidents represents a step toward greater accountability in sports.