After being found guilty of fielding an ineligible player in two games in their qualification group, Spain has been kicked out of the 2023 Rugby World Cup in France
After being found guilty of playing an ineligible player in two matches in their qualification group, Spain has been kicked out of the 2023 Rugby World Cup in France. Spain will miss out on the World Cup for the very first time since 1999 as a result of the decision. This also docks the country ten points.
Why Is Spain Kicked Out Of The Rugby World Cup 2023 After Forging A Passport
Who is that illegal player?
Gavin van den Berg, a South African-born prop, was found to have played for Spain in qualifying games against the Netherlands. He played without the proper residence conditions, according to a World Rugby disciplinary tribunal.
The Spanish have now been found guilty of fielding an ineligible player for the second time. They were penalised for the same crime during World Cup qualifying.
Replacement of Spain
According to the decision, which was made late on Thursday, Romania will now take their spot. Whereas Portugal will compete in a four-team playoff,
Statement from the Spanish Rugby Federation
The Spanish Rugby Federation termed the decision taken by the highest body in world rugby as “very harsh”
They are waiting for the World Rugby’s formal verdict. However, this decision means the XV del Leons are now out from the 2023 World Cup in France. Before the XV del Leon qualified directly by coming second in the 2021-2022 Rugby Europe Championship.
There was an oral hearing on Thursday, April 28 with the independent judicial committee appointed by World Rugby to investigate the claim of the Romanian Rugby Federation (FRR) on Gavin Van den Berg’s eligibility. The highest body in world rugby has decided to fine Spain 25,000 pounds. Further, it deducts five points for each of the two games in which this player was lined up. The Spanish Rugby Federation said in a statement.
“As a result of the suspected falsification of the aforementioned player’s passport, the Spanish Rugby Federation (FER) is continuing the special disciplinary proceedings that began at the time. And It will shortly arrange a press conference to provide all the necessary clarifications.” The statement stated.