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Steve Diamond Criticizes Rugby Officiating After Ban for Offensive Remarks

The Newcastle Falcons director of rugby, serving a six-week suspension, calls for greater accountability and reform in officiating governance.

Diamond, whose side are bottom of the league, has been banned for six weeks

Overview

  • Steve Diamond, director of rugby for Newcastle Falcons, is serving a six-week ban after making offensive remarks to match officials following a March 29 loss to Exeter Chiefs.
  • Diamond's remarks included calling officials 'c---s' and telling the TMO to 'retire,' which he later apologized for, admitting frustration over officiating errors during the match.
  • The controversy stems from an unreviewed incident where Newcastle player Alex Hearle was injured by an apparent elbow, which Diamond believes should have been penalized.
  • Diamond has criticized the current officiating system, arguing for Premiership Rugby to take over governance from the RFU to ensure better accountability and transparency.
  • He compared his punishment to that of Glasgow Warriors' Henco Venter, who received the same six-week ban for making contact with an opponent's eye, raising concerns over inconsistency in disciplinary actions.