World Cup final official handed long-term suspension following controversial display

Josh McAllister
Laurent Abrial

A match official from the Wheelchair World Cup final has been suspended until January 1, 2026, after being found guilty of misconduct. 

It was a controversial display from Laurent Abrial, with his antics on the touchline captured on the live BBC coverage of the final at Manchester Central last November.

England went on to be claimed champions following a 28-24 triumph over France.

Abrial appeared to vent his frustration at a decision made by the lead referee and was seen on two separate occasions making gestures while waiting for conversions to be taken.

Another video that went viral from the final showed a confrontation between Abrial and World Cup tournament director Dean Hardman after the final whistle.

He has been suspended from officiating in international rugby league matches until January 1, 2026.

IRL confirm suspension for Laurent Abrial

International Rugby League confirmed the outcome of the investigation on Friday, confirming the long-term suspension.

A statement read: “An IRL misconduct committee chaired by Karim Khan and consisting of Uriah Rennie and Adam Cox found Mr Abrial had breached the IRL code of conduct and brought the game into disrepute through inappropriate, unprofessional and unacceptable behaviour during and after the game, including obscene gestures that could have incited the crowd, and whose conduct was prejudicial to the interests of both IRL and FFR13.

“Mr Abrial accepted he had committed misconduct and expressed regret for his actions.

“Mr Abrial has until Monday, 19 June to lodge an appeal.”

It wasn’t the only controversy that overshadowed England’s momentus victory.

France head coach Sylvain Crismanovich used both his pre-match and post-match press conferences to voice his displeasure at the nature of the sport, criticising the impact of able-bodied players.

He said that it had caused the game to become more violent and increase the impact, which may put off disabled people from participating.

Teams are allowed two able-bodied players on the court at any one time.

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England Wheelchair Laurent Abrial