Argentina flyhalf Tomas Albornoz has been suspended for four matches after pleading guilty to misconduct following a contentious Nations Championship loss to England. The incident occurred during Argentina's 31-24 defeat in Santiago del Estero last month, when Albornoz remonstrated twice with referee Angus Gardner and made contact with the official before being restrained by teammates.

As a result, Albornoz will miss the test against South Africa in Buenos Aires, two home matches against Australia, and a French Top 14 club fixture for Toulon against Stade Rochelais.

World Rugby stated on Wednesday, "Taking into account Albornoz’s early acceptance of the charge, his undertakings to issue public and private written apologies, and his previously clear disciplinary record, the committee accepted that a four-match suspension was appropriate."

While Albornoz acknowledged that his conduct amounted to intimidation of a match official, he did not accept that his actions were abusive, insulting, offensive, or threatening—a distinction accepted by both World Rugby and the disciplinary committee.

Sources