YOKOHAMA – World Cup on Tuesday confirmed that SA referee Jaco Peyper was not considered for Rugby World Cup duty after a foolish picture of him with Wales fans appeared on social media.
The photo was taken after Peyper refereed the Wales vs France quarterfinal and in the match, France lock Sebastien Vahaamahina was red-carded. He struck Wales flanker Aaron Wainwright with an elbow in the face on Sunday.
Once the picture went viral, World Rugby was forced to investigate the circumstances around Peyper appearing to mock the elbow action.
World Cup said Peyper has apologised for an inappropriate photo. However, it was not enough as World Rugby confirmed he was not considered for this weekend's semifinals in Yokohama.
'World Rugby can confirm that the match officials selection committee did not consider Jaco Peyper for selection this weekend,' World Rugby said in a statement.
'Peyper recognises that a picture of him with Wales fans, which appeared on social media after the Wales versus France quarterfinal, was inappropriate and he has apologised.'
Likely, Peyper will also be overlooked for the final round of matches which will include the third-place play-off and the final.
