Connacht's Mack Hansen Banned For Six Weeks After Ref Criticism
Connacht's Mack Hansen Banned For Six Weeks After Ref Criticism
Connacht's Mack Hansen banned for six weeks, three suspended, after criticizing match officials following their United Rugby Championship loss to Leinster.
Connacht and Ireland rugby player Mack Hansen has been handed a six-week ban - three weeks of which are suspended - following comments critical of match officials after Connacht’s 38-21 loss to Leinster in the BKT United Rugby Championship on Dec. 21.
An Independent Disciplinary Panel upheld the charge of misconduct against Hansen during a hearing on Jan. 8.
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In addition to Hansen’s suspension, Connacht Rugby received a €10,000 fine, suspended until the end of the 2024-2025 season, for failing to control their personnel.
The Misconduct Charge
Hansen’s comments, which heavily criticized referee Chris Busby’s officiating, were found to breach Clause 3.2 of the BKT United Rugby Championship Disciplinary Rules.
Clause 3.2 defines misconduct as any behavior, statements or actions that are unsporting, insulting or bring the sport, its officials or its stakeholders into disrepute.
Hansen also violated eight additional clauses, highlighting the seriousness of his remarks.
The disciplinary panel, consisting of Roger Morris (Chair, Wales), Nigel Williams (Wales) and Stefan Terblanche (South Africa), noted that Hansen largely accepted his misconduct and expressed remorse for his actions.
Sanctions Imposed
The panel determined that a six-week ban was appropriate, suspending half of it to allow for a more constructive resolution. Hansen will miss Connacht’s next three matches:
- Jan. 11 vs. Lyon (EPCR Challenge Cup)
- Jan. 17 vs. Cardiff (EPCR Challenge Cup)
- Jan. 24 vs. Glasgow Warriors (BKT United Rugby Championship)
In addition, the following sanctions were imposed:
- Hansen must issue a full apology to referee Chris Busby.
- He is required to complete a match officiating course, with insights shared with his Connacht teammates.
- Connacht Rugby must conduct an education session on post-match conduct and media interactions.
The panel emphasized that Hansen’s sincere remorse and willingness to learn influenced their decision to pursue a more educational approach rather than a purely punitive one.
Club And League Response
Connacht Rugby avoided immediate financial penalties, but the €10,000 fine will be enforced if further breaches occur before the end of the current season.
The club has been warned about its obligation to control player behavior in public and media settings.
Hansen, who expressed deep regret for the incident, has pledged to apologize to Busby and work to rebuild his reputation.
“Regardless of the outcome, it was always my intention to apologize sincerely to the match official once the process was complete,” Hansen said in a statement.
Right To Appeal
Both Hansen and Connacht Rugby retain the right to appeal the decision, though no immediate indication has been given that they will do so.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the need for players and clubs to uphold respect for match officials.
As rugby continues to emphasize sportsmanship and integrity, the disciplinary measures taken against Hansen and Connacht highlight the league’s commitment to these values.
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