A Namibian rugby player has been handed a lifetime ban after tackling the referee in shocking footage.
The incident took place in a match between Grootfontein Rugby Club and Reho Falcons last month. The Grootfontein player can be seen walking away from the rest of the players, before turning his head towards the referee. From there, he sprints towards the official and brutally tackles him.
Players from both teams flooded to the scene and dragged away the offender as opposition players appeared to plead with those on the touchline for action to be taken. Those watching the match in the background looked flabbergasted.
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The referee brandished a red card to the player and ended the match early because he was concerned for his safety.
Namibia Rugby Union have now released a statement on the incident, and confirmed that the individual will never play rugby again.
“The Namibia Rugby Union (NRU) has concluded a disciplinary hearing concerning an incident that occurred during a match on 18 May 2024. During this match, a player from Grootfontein Rugby Club engaged in conduct deemed detrimental to the sport and the NRU,” they wrote on social media.
“The hearing took place on 30 May 2024, presided over by chairperson Louis Karsten, with Vice Chairperson Jacques Oosthuizen and Frik Engelbrecht, and facilitated by Norwin Oosthuizen. The hearing followed NRU guidelines and included the presentation of evidence such as the referee’s report and video footage of the incident.
“The player pleaded guilty to charges under World Rugby Laws 9.11, 9.12, 9.27 and 9.28. After careful consideration, the disciplinary committee imposed the following sanctions:
“1 – A lifetime ban from playing rugby. 2 – A 156-week ban from all forms of rugby, including coaching, refereeing and administration, effective from 30 May 2024. The ban will end on 31 May 2027, contingent upon clearance by the NRU for participation in non-playing roles.
“The committee emphasised the severity of the offence, noting the potential for serious injury to the match official, the deliberate nature of the act, and the negative impact on the reputation of the NRU and the sport of rugby internationally.
“The player has been informed of the right to appeal the decision.
“The NRU re-affirms its commitment to upholding the integrity and safety of the sport and will not tolerate any actions that jeopardise these values.”
You can watch a clip of the incident below.
