Argentina star cited following altercation with Aussie referee
NEWS: Argentina flyhalf Tomás Albornoz is set to become the first player to face disciplinary action under World Rugby’s new Match Official Abuse Sanction Process following his side’s 24-31 defeat to England.
Albornoz has been charged with misconduct after allegedly making physical contact with referee Angus Gardner during the Nations Championship Round three clash between Argentina and England at Estadio Único Madre de Ciudades.
The incident occurred following a dramatic finish to the Test, where England survived a late scare after Bautista Delguy’s potential match-tying try was overturned following TMO intervention.
The contest was an ill-tempered affair, with seven yellow cards issued across the 80 minutes before emotions spilled over after the final whistle.
According to World Rugby, Albornoz was seen remonstrating with the match officials before approaching Australian referee Gardner and making physical contact with him.
Gardner was heard shouting, “Hey, hey, hey,” as he ordered the Toulon flyhalf to move away.
Argentina support staff reportedly intervened to prevent other players from confronting the officials, while Gardner was also targeted by spectators as he left the field, with an object thrown from the stands.
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World Rugby has since confirmed that Albornoz has been charged with misconduct and will appear before an independent disciplinary committee.
The governing body said in a statement: “In line with the remit of the Match Official Abuse Sanction Process, the charges relate to events following the final whistle. Albornoz was seen remonstrating with the match officials following the final whistle.
“The hearing details will be confirmed shortly.
“The Match Official Abuse Sanction Process was introduced to complement Regulation 18 and provide a clearer and more consistent framework for addressing public criticism of match officials, particularly where such comments may contribute to wider online abuse. Developed by a cross-game working group including competition owners, match officials, player and coaching representatives, and championed by Union CEOs, the process reflects a unified commitment to support and protect match officials.”
Albornoz will become the first player to be adjudicated under the new Match Official Abuse Sanction Process, which was agreed at the recent Shape of the Game forum.
The new framework complements Regulation 18 and is designed to provide a clearer and more consistent approach to dealing with abuse of match officials, particularly incidents that may contribute to wider online harassment.
Italy coach Gonzalo Quesada was previously handed a one-match suspension following comments he made after his side’s defeat to the All Blacks in Round Two.
