Referee involved in Mack Hansen suspension set for shock retirement

"It’s really f*****g starting to get to us as a team."

Busby was the referee for Leinster vs Connacht on December 21, after which Connacht winger Mack Hansen went on extraordinary rant about decisions in the game and calls in general against his side.

In his press conference, Hansen said: "Two headshots against us but the crowd hasn’t reacted so you haven’t gone and looked at the TMO, yes? But the crowd has reacted, and you have gone to TMO. Just keep that in mind."

He added: "Like, I feel like we get this every week. We never get any calls, ever. I’ve been feeling this for years now.

"It’s like we get that every time so you can hear the frustration in my voice ‘cos it’s starting to get to the point where, honestly, it’s bull***t and it’s starting to get really frustrating for us ‘cos people will say we are an inconsistent team but Jesus Christ, when you are getting some of the calls we’re getting like, of course, you are going to be.

"It’s really f*****g starting to get to us as a team."

Earlier today it was announced by the URC that Hansen would receive a three-match ban for his actions, while also having to apologise to Busby and undergo referee and media training.

He released his apology via the Connacht website.

Busby was also in charge when Leinster took on Munster at Croke Park in October. Leinster were victorious that day, with the officials coming under major scrutiny for a number of big calls that went against the losers.

It is understood that there are many factors involved in Busby's decision, but that the Hansen situation has been a 'tipping point'.

Busby made his professional debut as a ref in 2020 and was an assistant at the 2023 World Cup.