Oyonnax wing handed one-year ban for referee threats

Ivory Coast international Tian, 35, was yellow-carded by Poite in the 67th minute of Oyonnax's 27-20 defeat to Grenoble on April 2.

But Tian's reaction saw Poite change his sanction to a red card, after which the sturdy wing became threatening towards the referee.

The ban, handed down by the French National Rugby League (LNR), could spell the end of Tian's career as he will be a month short of his 37th birthday when it expires, and will also be out of contract by then.

Tian apologised to Poite after the match but his outburst also cost his team a fine of 10,000 euros ($11,300).

Oyonnax, who are almost certain to be relegated to the French second division at the end of the season, had already suspended Tian on April 15.

Agence France-Presse