The University of Bath has launched an independent investigation into allegations that members of its rugby club plotted to spike the drinks of female students during Freshers' Week. The claims emerged after screenshots of a WhatsApp message circulated in which an anonymous student reported overhearing rugby players discussing spiking her and her friends at a pub. The university acknowledged the allegations are "frightening" and that they have caused significant concern among students, particularly women worried about their safety, whilst the rugby club has firmly denied organising or promoting any such activity.

The incident occurred during Freshers' Week (21–27 September) and prompted the university to increase security at nightclubs and venues across Bath. If the investigation finds evidence of wrongdoing, the university has promised to enforce "robust" disciplinary measures and will conduct a wider review into the culture of sports clubs. This controversy is not the first involving Bath University's rugby team; in 2020, the men's rugby union team was banned from the annual Varsity event following complaints of excessive alcohol consumption, alleged sexual misconduct, and violent behaviour.