(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
France’s Axelle Berthoumieu Suspended for Biting Incident at Women’s Rugby World Cup
EXETER, UK: France forward 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 the quarter-final clash.
The incident occurred during France’s 18-13 victory in Exeter, when Wafer raised her arm to the referee following a ruck. While the on-field officials did not review the action, the citing commissioner referred it to the Foul Play Review Committee (FPRC).
The committee originally set an entry point of 18 matches for the offense but reduced it to 12 matches after review. Berthoumieu has filed an appeal regarding the length of her suspension but will miss France’s semi-final against England at Ashton Gate in Bristol on Saturday. She is eligible to return to play on March 1, 2026, ten matches into the French domestic season.
World Rugby explained:
“The TMO was unable to determine clear and obvious foul play live and lacked additional evidence at the time. After reviewing all submissions, the committee applied a mid-range entry point of 18 matches and reduced six matches, resulting in a 12-match sanction.”
Berthoumieu’s suspension underscores World Rugby’s strict stance on player safety and foul play as the tournament progresses.
