France could be without Axelle Berthoumieu for their World Cup semi-final against England following an alleged bite on Ireland’s Aoife Wafer – an incident that has overshadowed an otherwise dramatic quarter-final clash at Sandy Park.
Ireland, who had stormed to a 13-0 lead by half-time, saw their hopes of a historic semi-final berth slip away as France mounted a second-half comeback to win 18-13.
But the result was quickly eclipsed by controversy when footage emerged appearing to show Berthoumieu biting Wafer’s arm during a breakdown.
Wafer was seen speaking to referee Aimee Barrett-Theron, gesturing toward her arm and indicating she had been bitten.
Ireland captain Sam Monaghan later confirmed she had raised the issue with officials, though no action was taken during the match. “I spoke to the referee,” Monaghan said. “Aoife told me-I didn’t see it myself but I spoke to the referee and asked them.”
Biting is considered a serious offence under World Rugby’s disciplinary code, carrying a minimum entry-point ban of 12 matches.
Retrospective action would almost certainly end Berthoumieu’s World Cup campaign and leave France without one of their most influential players for next Saturday’s semi-final showdown with tournament hosts and favourites England.
World Rugby confirmed on Sunday night that Berthoumieu’s case, along with a separate citing for teammate Manae Feleu, will be reviewed by an independent Foul Play Review Committee on Monday.
A statement read: “France’s Axelle Berthoumieu and Manae Feleu will have cases reviewed by an independent Foul Play Review Committee on Monday, 15 September following two separate citings arising from the France v Ireland at Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 Quarter-Final in Exeter on 14 September.
“The citing complaints were received from the independent Citing Commissioner Jeff Mark (Wales).
“Back row Axelle Berthoumieu has been cited for an action contrary to Law 9.12 (biting), while Second Row Manae Feleu has been cited for an action contrary to Law 9.13 (dangerous tackling).”
Former England captain Maggie Alphonsi condemned the incident as “disgraceful.”
Speaking to the BBC, she said: “I hate seeing that in the game – men’s or women’s. It’s very clear. She should be punished for that.
“It’s sad because the Women’s Rugby World Cup has been a celebration.
“It’s such a shame that now the headlines are going to be dominated by a silly incident from a player who didn’t need to do that. Now she will potentially miss the rest of the World Cup.”
