Review of Belgium-spain qualification match commissioned
World Rugby has commissioned a disputes committee to review the controversial end to Europe’s World Cup qualification period.
The decisive match between Belgium and Spain will be at the centre of the investigation, with the world governing body “deeply concerned” about the deployment of a Romanian officiating team.
Romania needed Spain to lose to qualify for the 2019 tournament and referee Vlad Iordachescu infuriated the Spanish players with his decisionmaking as they crashed to an unexpected 18-10 defeat.
The Spanish Rugby Federation had asked Rugby Europe to appoint different officials but were turned down.
“World Rugby was deeply concerned about the circumstances surrounding the Belgium versus Spain Rugby Europe Championship match, a match that was decisive in the context of Rugby World Cup 2019 qualification,” said a statement.
“Specifically, concerns related to Rugby Europe’s appointment of a match official team that was not neutral in the context of qualification and failing to act on Spain’s concerns in respect of the appointment.
“Given the context and significance of the fixture World Rugby acted immediately to request information relating to the above issues from Rugby Europe and participating unions.”
World Rugby’s executive committee and board had advocated a replay of the Belgium-spain tie but unspecified issues around player eligibility appear to have clouded the issue yet further.
“Given this information, a full and independent review is warranted,” the statement added.