Teen rugby player in France receives 20-year ban after assaulting referee
A shocking incident unfolded in late 2024 during a match in France’s under-19 Rugby League. According to The Sun, a 17-year-old player from Racing Club de Saint-Gaudens allegedly struck a referee during the game.
The match between Racing Club de Saint-Gaudens and Limoux took place on December 15. Reports indicate that the player hit the referee on the right cheek as the teams were heading to the locker rooms.
The French Rugby League Federation responded with severe consequences, handing the player a 20-year suspension. Such a lengthy ban is effectively a lifetime ban, as it’s unlikely the player will return to the sport after two decades.
“Like you, they are human, and they can sometimes make mistakes. From insults to threats to obscene gestures, every referee has already experienced this horrible situation. Recently, physical attacks against us have multiplied,” stated Rugby League referees in a collective response.
The referees also highlighted how incidents like this deter young people from pursuing careers as match officials. Many are unwilling to face the hate, constant threats, and verbal abuse that have become all too common in the sport.
Yasmine Green
Dailysports's expert
Translated by the editors
