Axelle Berthoumieu’s Suspension Reduced for Bite at Rugby World Cup
French player Axelle Berthoumieu, who was sanctioned for biting an opponent in the Women’s Rugby World Cup quarter-final match, has had her suspension reduced.
Initially, the imposed sanction was twelve matches, but after an appeal, it has been reduced to nine matches.
Berthoumieu admitted to biting Aoife Wafer during France’s 18-13 victory over Ireland in the match held at Sandy Park.
The player acknowledged that her action deserved a red card, but disputed the severity of the sanction.
An independent disciplinary commission determined that the initial suspension was too extensive due to a procedural error, resulting in a reduction of three matches.Axelle Berthoumieu, left, admitted to biting Irish star Aoife Wafer during France’s quarter-final victory in the World Cup on Sunday.
Berthoumieu will not be able to participate in the remainder of the World Cup, missing the semi-final against England and the final or the match for third place.
In addition, her teammate Manae Feleu was also ruled out of the tournament due to a three-match ban for a dangerous tackle.
