Genge gets a three week ban

Ellis Genge, Bristol Bears, was cited for dangerous tackling contrary to World Rugby Law 9.13 for an incident during the game against Sale Sharks on 14 March 2023.  

The case was heard yesterday evening (Tuesday 18 April) by an independent disciplinary panel chaired by Matthew Weaver KC sitting with Mitch Read and Carl Bradshaw. 

Genge accepted the charge and received a three week ban which will be reduced to two if he completes the World Rugby Coaching Intervention Programme.  

Panel chair, Matthew Weaver KC, said: "“Ellis Genge accepted the charge of dangerously tackling Tom Curry, contrary to World Rugby Law 9.13, prior to the hearing and, as such, the Panel needed to consider only the appropriate sanction. 

"Having considered the incident, including viewing footage of it both in real time and in slow motion, and it being confirmed that Tom Curry had suffered no significant injury, the Panel were content that the appropriate entry point was the mandatory minimum of mid-range, being a six week suspension from playing. 

"In light of his acceptance of the charge at the earliest opportunity, his apology to Tom Curry, and his previously good disciplinary record over a long career of over 150 top level matches and 40 international matches, the Panel were content to mitigate the suspension by the maximum 50%, reducing the suspension to a 3-week suspension. 

"Ellis Genge has confirmed his intention to participate in the World Rugby Coaching Intervention Programme which, if he is confirmed as eligible and conditional upon him completing the programme, will reduce his suspension to two weeks, meaning that he will be unavailable for Bristol Bears’ matches against Exeter Chiefs on 22nd April and against Gloucester on 6th May,”