No room for it.

The British & Irish Lions and Harlequins have both released strong statements following a comment about the colour of Marcus Smith’s skin made by former Ireland international and current Irish Independent columnist, Neil Francis.

Francis referred to the Lions playmaker, who was born in the Philippines, as having a “David Beckham haircut and an Oompah Loompa tan” during an episode of the Left Wing podcast.

The comment was subsequently edited out but not before a clip of it had been widely circulated and criticised on social media.

“We find the remarks offensive and have written to the Independent to express our deep dissatisfaction,” a Lions spokesperson said.

Harlequins, meanwhile, said they were “disgusted” by the remark and said they are awaiting a written reply from the Independent.

“Harlequins is disgusted by racist comments made by Independent.ie columnist Neil Francis on the paper’s rugby podcast, The Left Wing, about Harlequins, England and British and Irish Lions fly-half Marcus Smith on July 14,” a statement read.

“The Club firmly believes that there is no room for racism in any part of society, let alone professional sport.

“Harlequins await a written reply from The Independent.ie regarding this matter.”