That ref

[Perth Red]

Ok so if you didnt watch the wheelchair final you missed the most unbelievable non playing incident of the tournament. The game had ref’s by an English ref on one sideline and a French ref on the other. Not sure if the bloke had bet his house on France winning or just lost it but he argued with the other ref, demonstrated up and down the sideline when decisions were made and at the end of the game went off big time!

I’ve heard of dodgy French refs back in the 60’s and 70’s test matches but have to say I’ve never seen anything like this guy! Bit of footage of him at end of game in link below and a fan photo of him flicking v’s and the bird at the crowd! I think it’s safe to say he’s officiated his last international game lol

Wheelchair World Cup Final referee in fresh controversy after footage emerges

Laurent Abrial became the centre of attention during the Wheelchair World Cup Final.

www.examinerlive.co.uk

 

[Perth Red]

Footage of his antics during the game!

Highly unusual moment as a referee chucks a tantrum at Wheelchair RLWC

The French official wasn't happy at one of his colleague's calls and it was clear to see.

www.theroar.com.au

 

[titoelcolombiano]

What a goose

 

[Perth Red]

Following one of the most bizarre things I’ve ever seen a5 a RL game the ref involved has been stood down for 2 years.


The match official who garnered worldwide headlines for his conduct during the Rugby League Wheelchair World Cup Final has been banned from officiating international matches for over two years.
Laurent Abrial, the French official whose outburst went viral, has been found guilty of misconduct and has been told he cannot official international rugby league matches again until the beginning of 2026.
Abrial was one of two main officials but was involved in a number of controversial moments, none more so than when he visibly demonstrated against a decision that had been made.

Controversial World Cup referee whose outburst went viral discovers punishment

Laurent Abrial was one of two main officials in charge of the Rugby League Wheelchair World Cup Final.

www.examinerlive.co.uk