Leicester Tigers head coach Michael Cheika has been suspended by the Rugby Football Union (RFU) following an incident involving a match-day doctor during his debut game in charge of the Premiership side.
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The 57-year-old Australian, charged under rule 5.12 for “prejudicial conduct to the interests of the game,” allegedly showed disrespect toward the doctor after Leicester’s narrow opening-day win against Exeter Chiefs.
Cheika Receives Two-Week Ban
The former Australia and Argentina head coach was handed a two-week ban, with one week suspended until the end of the season, after an independent disciplinary panel reviewed the case on Tuesday night. Cheika’s suspension stems from his interactions with the doctor following the match, which the panel found disrespectful, although not intimidating or abusive.
Leicester Express Discontent with Decision
Leicester Tigers responded with a strongly worded statement, expressing disappointment over the decision. Executive chairman Peter Tom said, “Leicester Tigers welcome the panel’s finding that head coach Michael Cheika was not intimidating or abusive towards the match-day doctor following the recent game with Exeter Chiefs. However, the club would nevertheless like to express its dissatisfaction with the finding that Michael Cheika was disrespectful.”
Lack of Transparency Criticised
The club also voiced its frustration over the handling of the decision, stating they had not received the written judgment prior to the RFU’s public announcement. Tom added, “We find it regrettable that the RFU’s statement included some reasoning for the decision from the chairman of the panel, which was not shared with the club at the hearing and before the written judgment has been provided.”
Commitment to Player Safety Stressed
In closing, Leicester reaffirmed their dedication to player safety, stating, “Leicester Tigers would like to place on record that it would never question the World Rugby HIA process, when correctly implemented, and is rigorously committed to the safety, wellbeing, and health of our players.”
The club has indicated that they are considering an appeal, pending further clarification once the RFU provides the full written judgment.
The Three Richest Couples in World Rugby
Rugby has produced some of the most iconic athletes in the sporting world, but for a select few, success on the pitch has also led to immense wealth off it.
From high-profile marriages to lucrative endorsements and television appearances, these rugby stars have built financial empires.
Here’s a look at three couples who have combined their sporting legacies with fame and fortune, amassing millions along the way.
Mike and Zara Tindall – £20m
Mike Tindall is known not just for his rugby prowess but for his royal connections. As the husband of Zara Phillips, the granddaughter of Queen Elizabeth II, Tindall has become a prominent figure in British media.
Nicknamed “The Fridge” due to his imposing physique, Tindall was a stalwart on the rugby field, famously breaking his nose at least eight times over the course of his career. Since retiring from the sport, he’s made a name for himself in the entertainment world, appearing on popular reality shows such as I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here, Bear Grylls: Mission Survive, The Jump, Shark Cage, Celebrity Poker Club, and All-Star Poker Challenge.
Despite his success in sports and entertainment, Tindall’s wealth has been largely bolstered by his royal ties, with his net worth estimated at £20 million, according to British media.