Berbizier cited for outburst

Racing-Métro coach Pierre Berbizier will have to answer for his outburst regarding referee Christophe Berbos at a press conference last week.

Racing-Métro Director of Rugby Pierre Berbizier will have to answer for his outburst regarding referee Christophe Berbos at a press conference last week.

Berbizier still blames Berdos for his side's loss in last season's Top 14 play-offs and went so far as to label his appointment for last Saturday's match between Racing and La Rochelle match as a “provocation.”

“I have no pleasure in crossing paths with this person….I've had no contact with him and don't want any,” Berbizier spat out at last week's press conference.

Berbizier went on to launch a tirade of criticism on what he felt were inconsistencies in Berdos' decisions during Racing's play-off and the following week's semi-final.

The former France and Italy coach was cited for a similar outburst after the play-off in question last June but the charges were dropped.

He clearly hasn't gotten over it though and after last week's meltdown, LNR President Pierre-Yves Revol and FRR President Pierre Camou have both called for him to be punished this time.

Berbizier will appear for an LNR disciplinary commission on September 15 or 22 and risks been slapped with a touchline ban of between 20 and 80 days and a fine of up to 1050 Euros.

Meanwhile, Racing are sweating over the fitness of fly-half Juan Martin Hernandez, who was forced off the field in the 34th minute of their 43-18 win over La Rochelle.

“Hernandez was complaining about his thigh,” said Berbizier.

“I don't know whether it is a pull, a tear or a strained thigh. We are awaiting confirmation from the medical staff.

“He has maybe paid the price for playing in three successive matches. That comes at a very intense period for the players.”