Schmidt avoids penalty but World Rugby still displeased after his post-match comments following Australia’s narrow 29-26 loss to the British and Irish Lions. Although Joe Schmidt won’t face any disciplinary action, World Rugby chief executive Alan Gilpin expressed clear disappointment over the Wallabies coach’s remarks, particularly regarding player safety concerns.
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Schmidt’s Reaction Sparks Debate
The controversy followed Hugo Keenan’s last-minute try for the Lions, which came after a long TMO review. The match officials ruled that Jac Morgan’s challenge on Carlo Tizzano was legal, allowing the try to stand. Schmidt responded critically, suggesting that the decision contradicted World Rugby’s commitment to player safety. Rugby Australia’s CEO Phil Waugh backed Schmidt, calling for greater accountability from the sport’s governing body.
World Rugby Not Happy with Tone
Though Schmidt isn’t expected to be punished, Gilpin made it clear the comments struck a nerve. Speaking at a Rugby World Cup 2027 ticket launch event in Sydney, Gilpin said he was especially disappointed by any implication that World Rugby isn’t prioritizing player welfare. He pointed to ongoing efforts like using smart mouthguards and updating game laws to balance physical intensity with safety. Gilpin stressed the need for respectful discussion, even when emotions are high.
Schmidt’s Standing May Have Helped
Despite his sharp reaction, Gilpin acknowledged the emotional nature of the match and Schmidt’s history with World Rugby, where he once served as director of high performance. Gilpin noted that Schmidt didn’t question the integrity of the referees, and he appreciated that the comments remained within the bounds of respectful disagreement. Talks with Rugby Australia are ongoing to clarify expectations moving forward.
Support for Officials but No Clear Verdict
Gilpin expressed strong support for referee Andrea Piardi and his team, though he stopped short of saying whether the final decision was right or wrong. He emphasized how much pressure match officials are under and praised their ability to make real-time decisions in such intense moments. He also pointed out that decisions are regularly reviewed with coaches, and that process is underway with both teams.
2027 World Cup Ticket News
In lighter news, it was confirmed that more than a million tickets will be available for the 2027 Rugby World Cup, with prices starting at €22.50 ($40AUS) for adults and going up from €57 ($100AUS). Despite the controversy, Gilpin ended on a positive note, saying, “But I love the game. I love watching it, I love growing it.”
