WR backs officials after Lions vs Wallabies controversy; Schmidt escapes sanction

Joe Schmidt Avoids Sanctions After Rugby Controversy

Wallabies coach Joe Schmidt will face no disciplinary action for his comments on the controversial conclusion of the second Test between the British and Irish Lions. World Rugby boss Alan Gilpin confirmed that the findings of an ongoing review into Jac Morgan’s play will not be made public.

I believe Joe’s comments have continued to respect the fact that match officials have a difficult job. I may not agree with the decisions that were made, but I don’t think he has questioned the integrity of our match officials.

Alan Gilpin, World Rugby CEO

Gilpin, who was in Sydney to present the ticket sales process for the 2027 Rugby World Cup, backed the officials and confirmed that Schmidt would not be sanctioned for his “emotional” post-match comments.

The comment that could have caused Schmidt problems was that the decision not to penalize Morgan did not live up to the promotion of player safety. Gilpin expressed his disappointment at the comments that questioned World Rugby’s commitment to player welfare. Gilpin stated that the review will be completed in the coming days and that the findings will not be made public.

The ticket sales process for the 2027 Rugby World Cup will begin with the launch of a “Superpass”.