France’s Berthoumieu Ruled out of World Cup Semi-Final after 12-Match Ban for Biting
France flanker Axelle Berthoumieu will miss the remainder of the Women’s Rugby World Cup after receiving a 12-match ban for biting Ireland’s Aoife Wafer during Sunday’s quarter-final match in Exeter. The incident occurred in the second half of france’s 18-13 victory, secured after a dramatic comeback from a 13-0 halftime deficit.
Berthoumieu faced a disciplinary hearing on Monday following a citation for the alleged bite. Footage appeared to show Berthoumieu biting Wafer’s arm during a breakdown in play,prompting Wafer to speak with referee Aimee Barrett-theron and gesture towards her arm. Ireland captain Sam Monaghan confirmed she raised the issue with officials during the match. “I spoke to the referee,” Monaghan said. “Aoife told me. I didn’t see it myself but I spoke to the referee and asked them.”
An Autonomous Foul Play review Committee (FPRC) chaired by Brenda Heather-Latu (Samoa),with Ofisa Tonu’u (New Zealand) and Valeriu Toma (Romania),proposed the 12-match sanction. While Berthoumieu acknowledged the action warranted a red card,she is appealing the length of the ban.
france’s Manae Feleu was also cited for a high tackle and initially received a three-match ban, reduced to two pending completion of a coaching Intervention Program. Feleu is also appealing the length of her suspension. Both appeals are scheduled to be heard on Tuesday, September 16.
France will face England in the semi-finals on Saturday in Bristol at 3.30pm. The other semi-final will see New Zealand play Canada on Friday evening.
