Poirot suspended two weeks for Pollock altercation in Champions Cup final

Incident Details

Bordeaux-Bègles prop Jefferson Poirot has been suspended for two weeks following an altercation with Henry Pollock after Saturday’s Investec Champions Cup final. Poirot was alleged to have grabbed the throat of the Northampton No 8 amid an on-pitch fracas in the moments after the final whistle of his side’s 28-20 win at the Principality Stadium.

Disciplinary Action

The 32-year-old was cited earlier this week and a punishment was imposed following a disciplinary hearing on Thursday. A statement from tournament organiser European Professional Club Rugby confirmed that Poirot “accepted that he had committed an act of foul play that warranted a red card”. The independent disciplinary committee upheld the complaint and determined that the offending was at the low-end of World Rugby’s sanctions and four weeks was selected as the appropriate entry point.

“Taking into account the player’s guilty plea, his good disciplinary record and his full co-operation with the disciplinary process, the committee decided to reduce the sanction by the maximum of 50% before imposing a two-week suspension,” the statement added.

Impact on the Team

Poirot will miss the last two regular-season fixtures, a significant loss for Bordeaux as they prepare for the final stages of the competition. His absence could potentially impact the team’s performance, given his experience and skills as a seasoned prop.