# Referee Barrett-Theron steps down after cancer diagnosis

Rugby referee Jaco Barrett-Theron has stepped down from officiating following a cancer diagnosis. The South African official will focus on his health and treatment. His departure affects upcoming rugby matches as replacements are arranged.

**Importance:** 3/5

## Sources

### Sports
- [BBC Sport](https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/rugby-union/articles/cwyq399xvv1o?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss) — Wed, 15 Jul 2026 17:32:52 GMT