Why Was Tom Jones' 'Delilah' Banned From Wales Rugby Matches? Singer To Defy Rules After 2 Decades

"Delilah," one of Tom Jones' hit songs which he released in 1968, will be heard again despite its recent ban from rugby matches.

The Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) and Principality Stadium released a statement announcing the ban for Jones' "Delilah" during Wales' international rugby matches. They confirmed that the song had been removed from Principality Stadium's playlist as it depicts a woman getting stabbed by her jealous partner.

Principality Stadium spokesperson said, according to PA Media (via Fox News), it would not be featured on the playlist for choirs at the venue due to its problematic nature.

The WRU also expressed how it condemns domestic violence of any kind, resulting in the song's removal.

"We have previously sought advice from subject matter experts on the issue of censoring the song, and we are respectfully aware that it is problematic and upsetting to some supporters because of its subject matter," the statement went on.

However, Daily Mail noted that "Delilah" still appears on Jones' set list for his July performance at Cardiff Castle.

The singer and his representatives are yet to release a response regarding the ban, but he previously defended the song in an interview.

Tom Jones Explains "Delilah" Lyrics

In 2014, Jones said in an interview with BBC that "Delilah" lyrics should not be taken literally.

The 82-year-old "Green Green Grass of Home" hitmaker said he loves to hear it sung at rugby games as it makes him feel proud to be Welsh. He then clarified that "a man killing a woman" in the song is not a political statement.

"It's just something that happens in life [and] he just loses it," he continued. "The great thing about the song that everyone picks up on is the chorus. I don't think that they are really thinking about it."

He last performed the song during a performance at the stadium in June 2022.

Following the WRU decision, English media personality Christine Hamilton told GB News that it was an "absolutely bonkers decision." Meanwhile, broadcaster Danny Kelly called it "mental."

In relation to the removal of the song, BBC conducted an investigation amid allegations of sexism and discrimination at the WRU. Former general manager of Welsh women's rugby, Charlotte Wathan said there was a "toxic culture" of sexism at the organization.

Steve Phillips left his role as WRU chief executive after the allegations emerged. Nigel Walker replaced him on an interim basis.

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