Johnny Sexton set for crucial misconduct hearing that will decide World Cup fate

Leinster and their former captain are in the dock.

Johnny Sexton and Leinster Rugby have been informed of a hearing into potential misconduct, following on from the Champions Cup final at Aviva Stadium on May 20.

Sexton was injured for the game, against La Rochelle, but is reported to have featured in a half-time tunnel incident and twice was picked up in post-match footage trying to approach referee Jaco Peyper and his fellow officials.

The hearing will take place on July 13 and Sexton could yet be banned if officials deem his actions to be a breach of conduct rules.

Full Johnny Sexton statement

The statement, in full from the EPCR reads:

‘Misconduct complaints against the Leinster Rugby player, Johnny Sexton, and against Leinster Rugby, arising from the Heineken Champions Cup final on Saturday 20 May 2023, have been lodged by EPCR.

‘After thorough fact finding and careful review of Johnny Sexton’s behaviour towards match officials after the match, in accordance with EPCR regulations, the EPCR Disciplinary Officer has submitted misconduct complaints so that an independent disciplinary panel can determine whether any misconduct has been committed by Mr Sexton (through his behaviour) and Leinster (through failing to exercise reasonable control over Mr Sexton).

‘The complaints were referred to the Chairman of the Independent Disciplinary Panel, who has appointed Christopher Quinlan KC (England, Chair), Adam Casselden SC (Australia) and Marcello D’Orey (Portugal) as the independent Disciplinary Committee to hear the case and consider whether misconduct took place.

‘The hearing will take place by video conference, on 13 July. EPCR will be making no further comment.’

Johnny Sexton has now retired from Leinster Rugby but any match bans or suspensions could impinge on his World Cup plans with Ireland.

Sexton is due to retire from all forms of rugby after the World Cup.

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