France’s Axelle Berthoumieu has been slapped with a 12-match ban for biting Ireland’s Aoife Wafer during Sunday’s Rugby World Cup quarter-final. The incident occurred early in the second half at Sandy Park, in a match where Ireland had a 13-0 lead at half-time but ultimately lost 18-13.
Ireland’s back row, Wafer, lodged a complaint with officials during the game, but the television match official claimed there was insufficient evidence to send Berthoumieu off the field. However, upon review, Berthoumieu was cited and the Independent Foul Play Review Committee (FPRC) examined the footage today, resulting in an 18-game suspension for Berthoumieu.
This penalty has been reduced to 12 matches, meaning she will not represent France again at the World Cup and won’t be eligible for another international until March 2026.
Berthoumieu is currently appealing the duration of her suspension.
Adding to France’s woes, their captain Manae Feleu has also been hit with a suspension that could see her World Cup journey come to an end.
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She received a three-game ban for a high tackle on an Irish player, but this could be reduced pending an appeal.
Having triumphed over Ireland in the quarter-finals, France are now preparing for a World Cup semi-final showdown against England this weekend.
Berthoumieu has broken her silence on the incident, writing: “On Sunday during the match against Ireland, I lost my cool. I know it’s unacceptable and I’m aware that it puts an end to my World Cup.
“I would like to sincerely apologise to Aoife Wafer and the Irish team, to my teammates and our staff, to the FFR, and to all those who support us.
“This is not the image I want to project or the player I want to be. I accept the punishment and I take responsibility. Rugby is a sport of respect, and this gesture has no place on a rugby field.”