world Cup, while teammate Manae Feleu faces a three-match suspension.">
Paris, France – French Rugby back row Axelle Berthoumieu will be sidelined for twelve matches after being cited for biting Ireland’s aoife Wafer during Sunday’s Rugby world Cup quarter-final clash. The disciplinary action effectively rules her out of the remainder of the tournament, including the semi-final match against England and potentially the final or bronze medal game on September 27th.
The Incident and Initial Response
Table of Contents
- 1. The Incident and Initial Response
- 2. Disciplinary Hearing and Outcome
- 3. additional Suspension for Teammate
- 4. Recent Trends in Rugby Disciplinary Action
- 5. Understanding Disciplinary Procedures in Rugby
- 6. Frequently Asked Questions About Rugby Disciplinary Action
- 7. What factors did World Rugby consider when determining the 12-match suspension for Axelle Berthoumiu?
- 8. france’s Axelle Berthoumiu Suspended for 12 Matches After Biting Incident in Women’s Rugby World Cup
- 9. The Incident & immediate Aftermath
- 10. Breakdown of the Disciplinary Process
- 11. Impact on the French Team & world Cup Campaign
- 12. Precedents & Similar Cases in Rugby
- 13. The Broader Conversation: Discipline in Women’s Rugby
The alleged biting incident occurred during the second half of the match at Sandy Park, as Ireland secured a penalty turnover. Ireland’s captain, Sam Monaghan, promptly brought the situation to the attention of the match referee, Aimee Barrett-Theron, however, no immediate disciplinary action was taken on the field. The Television Match Official (TMO) determined that the footage did not provide “clear and obvious foul play” at the time of the event.
Disciplinary Hearing and Outcome
An Self-reliant Foul Play Review Committee (FPRC) subsequently examined the incident,utilising written evidence alongside comprehensive broadcast footage. This review led to the conclusion of foul play and the imposition of a twelve-match suspension on Berthoumieu.Despite admitting to committing a red-card offense, the player intends to contest the severity of the ban. According to World Rugby’s regulations, a biting incident typically carries a minimum six-month suspension, increasing the stakes for Berthoumieu’s appeal.
additional Suspension for Teammate
Alongside Berthoumieu’s suspension, France’s second row and co-captain, Manae Feleu, has received a three-match ban for a high tackle in the same match, which could be reduced to two matches if she successfully completes a tackle technique course. Feleu has chosen to appeal this decision, and both cases are scheduled to be heard by a disciplinary committee on Tuesday.
Did You Know? Biting incidents in rugby, while rare, are treated with extreme seriousness due to the potential for infection and the violation of player safety.
Pro Tip: Players are increasingly aware of the scrutiny provided by multiple camera angles and TMO reviews, emphasizing the importance of maintaining discipline on the field.
Recent Trends in Rugby Disciplinary Action
Recent years have seen an increased focus on player safety in rugby, leading to more frequent and stringent disciplinary measures. In 2023, World Rugby implemented stricter protocols for tackling and foul play, aiming to reduce head injuries and ensure fair play. This has resulted in a higher number of red cards and suspensions,sparking debate within the rugby community about the balance between protecting players and maintaining the flow of the game. World Rugby Player Welfare Guidelines provide detailed information on safety protocols.
| Player | Country | Offence | Suspension |
|---|---|---|---|
| Axelle Berthoumieu | France | Biting | 12 Matches |
| Manae Feleu | France | High Tackle | 3 Matches (potentially 2) |
Understanding Disciplinary Procedures in Rugby
The process for handling disciplinary matters in rugby typically involves an initial review by match officials,followed by a citing commissioner who can identify potential foul play. If a player is cited, a disciplinary hearing is convened, where evidence is presented and a decision is made.Players have the right to appeal these decisions through an independent process. These procedures are designed to ensure fairness and consistency in the enforcement of the game’s laws.
Frequently Asked Questions About Rugby Disciplinary Action
- What constitutes a biting offense in rugby? A biting offense occurs when a player intentionally bites another player, causing harm or the threat of harm.
- Can a player appeal a disciplinary decision? Yes, players have the right to appeal a disciplinary decision through an independent review process.
- What is the role of the TMO in disciplinary matters? The TMO reviews footage to identify potential foul play that may have been missed by the on-field officials.
- How do suspensions impact a player’s availability? Suspensions prevent a player from participating in matches for a specified period, impacting their team’s performance.
- What measures are being taken to improve player safety in rugby? World Rugby is implementing stricter tackling protocols and disciplinary measures to reduce head injuries and promote safer play.
What are yoru thoughts on the severity of the ban handed down to Axelle Berthoumieu? Do you believe the increased scrutiny on player safety is benefiting the game of rugby?
Share your opinions in the comments below and engage with the conversation!
What factors did World Rugby consider when determining the 12-match suspension for Axelle Berthoumiu?
france‘s Axelle Berthoumiu Suspended for 12 Matches After Biting Incident in Women’s Rugby World Cup
The Incident & immediate Aftermath
French international Axelle Berthoumiu has received a meaningful 12-match suspension following a biting incident during a Women’s Rugby World Cup pool stage match against Fiji on September 14th, 2025. The incident, occurring in the 72nd minute of the game, was reported to the citing commissioner and subsequently reviewed. World Rugby confirmed the sanction,marking a severe penalty for such an offense in international rugby. The biting victim was identified as Fijian player Jale Sailosi.
This suspension instantly impacts France’s campaign in the Rugby World Cup and raises questions about disciplinary measures within the sport. The incident has sparked considerable debate amongst fans and pundits alike, focusing on the severity of the act and the appropriate response from governing bodies.Key terms related to this event include rugby biting incident, Axelle Berthoumiu suspension, and Women’s Rugby World Cup discipline.
Breakdown of the Disciplinary Process
World Rugby’s disciplinary process for such incidents is multi-layered. Here’s a step-by-step overview:
- Citing commissioner Report: The citing commissioner, present at the match, initially flagged the incident for review.
- Review by Autonomous Disciplinary Committee: An independent committee, comprised of experienced rugby personnel, reviewed video evidence and heard submissions from both players and team representatives.
- Hearing & Evidence Presentation: Berthoumiu was given the prospect to present her defense and evidence.
- Sanction Determination: Based on the evidence, the disciplinary committee determined the severity of the offense and imposed the 12-match ban. This falls under World Rugby’s sanctions for foul play, specifically relating to acts of violence.
- Appeal Process: Berthoumiu has the right to appeal the decision to an independent appeal committee. The deadline for lodging an appeal is typically within a short timeframe following the initial sanction.
this process emphasizes fairness and due process, ensuring players have a chance to defend themselves against accusations. Related search terms include World Rugby disciplinary rules, rugby citing process, and player sanctions rugby.
Impact on the French Team & world Cup Campaign
The 12-match suspension is a devastating blow to the French team. Berthoumiu is a key player, known for her physicality and experience in the back row. Her absence will undoubtedly be felt throughout the remainder of the Women’s Rugby World Cup.
* loss of Leadership: Berthoumiu frequently enough serves as a vocal leader on the field.
* Tactical Adjustments: The coaching staff will need to make significant tactical adjustments to compensate for her absence.
* Squad Morale: The incident and subsequent suspension could possibly impact team morale.
* Potential Replacements: France will need to rely on other players in their squad to fill the void left by berthoumiu.Potential replacements include [mention potential players – research needed].
The suspension also casts a shadow over France’s World Cup ambitions. They were considered strong contenders, but this setback substantially reduces their chances of lifting the trophy. Keywords: France Rugby World Cup, Axelle Berthoumiu injury replacement, Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025.
Precedents & Similar Cases in Rugby
While rare, biting incidents have occurred in rugby before. Here are a few notable examples:
* 2011 – Brent cockbain (Australia): Received a two-week ban for biting All Black prop Tony Woodcock.
* 2014 – Rhys Ruddock (Ireland): Was cited for biting during a match against Wales.
* 2017 – Jacques Potgieter (Sharks): Received a lengthy ban for biting an opponent’s ear.
Thes cases demonstrate that World Rugby takes biting incidents extremely seriously, and sanctions are typically substantial. The 12-match ban handed down to Berthoumiu is one of the longest suspensions for such an offense in recent rugby history. Related searches: rugby biting history, longest rugby bans, World Rugby precedent biting.
The Broader Conversation: Discipline in Women’s Rugby
This incident has reignited the conversation surrounding discipline in women’s rugby. As the sport continues to grow in popularity and physicality, ensuring player safety and maintaining a high standard of conduct is paramount.
* Increased Scrutiny: With greater media coverage, incidents are subject to increased scrutiny.
* Emphasis on Education: There’s a growing need for education programs focused on fair play and respect.
* Consistent Application of Rules: Ensuring consistent application of disciplinary rules across all levels of the game is crucial.
* Player Welfare: Protecting player welfare must remain a top priority.
