The EPCR revealed this Thursday the sanctions for the Toulonnais and the Parisians, who received a red card during the first day of the European Rugby Cup. They range from 5 to 2 weeks of suspension.
The first weekend of the Champions Cup had wreaked havoc on the disciplinary side of the ranks of French clubs. Red card for Toulonnais Yannick Youyoutte after a violent tackle on international fly-half Manie Libbok, during RCT’s victory at the Stormers (24-14). The Springbok had to be taken to hospital. Released a few hours later, Libbok suffered a concussion and will have to be re-evaluated after twelve days, in accordance with the concussion protocol.
Red cards also for Parisians Pierre-Henri Azagoh and Baptiste Pesenti during the heavy defeat of Stade Français at Thomond Park against Munster (33-7). The first was sent off after a delayed tackle on international third row Peter O’Mahony. The second had turned Irish scrum-half Craig Casey on another illegal tackle.
Stade Français Paris deprived of two second lines
The sanctions were therefore awaited with fear, the EPCR often having a heavy hand, in particular towards players in the Top 14. Yannick Youyoutte was suspended for 5 weeks. The Toulonnais risked double that but “no aggravating factor was identified and a reduction of 5 weeks was granted based on the defense elements presented.” He will be allowed to play again from January 13, 2025. However, if he participates in World Rugby’s coaching intervention program, he will be able to play again from Monday January 6.
Pierre-Henri Azagoh is suspended for 3 weeks. The Stade Français second row is authorized to play again from Monday December 30, 2024. He can also earn a week by participating in the World Rugby program. His teammate, Baptiste Pesenti, received a 2-week suspension. The second row will be allowed to play again from Monday December 23, 2024.
