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Referee Tom Foley will take a break from international rugby because of the "torrent of criticism and abuse" he received after the World Cup final.

The Briton was the television match official (TMO) for South Africa's victory over New Zealand in October.

New Zealand captain Sam Cane's yellow card for a high tackle on Jesse Kriel was upgraded to a red card following a TMO 'bunker' review.

Foley will continue to officiate in the Premiership.

"Having reached the pinnacle in officiating at the Rugby World Cup final, now feels the right time to take a break from the international game," said Foley.

"The pressure and scrutiny I came under after the Rugby World Cup final, along with a torrent of criticism and abuse online, has helped to reaffirm that this is the right decision for me at this point in my life.

"While it's a privilege to be at the heart of some of the sport's most iconic moments, the increasing levels of vitriol, when the demands and expectation are so high, have led me to this moment."

World Cup final referee Wayne Barnes retired five days after the match, saying "vile" social media abuse towards him and his family "crossed a line".

Kane's red card was the first in a World Cup final, which South Africa won 12-11 in Paris.

South Africa captain Siya Kolisi also spent time in the sin-bin for a high tackle on Ardie Savea, but it was not upgraded by the TMO bunker.

Rugby Football Union (RFU) chief executive Bill Sweeney said: "The abuse he [Foley] has suffered since the Rugby World Cup final, along with other officials involved in that game, is totally unacceptable and no-one should be treated in this way, doing their job for the sport they are so committed to and passionate about.

"We will do everything possible to help guard against the abuse aimed at match officials and players and would urge everyone in our game to consider the role they can play in upholding rugby values."

Foley, who started refereeing in 2010, has officiated in 48 Tests.

England Rugby said he will "step away" from the international game for the "foreseeable future".

England captain Owen Farrell last week made himself unavailable for the 2024 Six Nations "in order to prioritise his and his family's mental wellbeing".