Fans call out IRFU hypocrisy & Sexton favouritism after Aki ban

Some fans aren't happy.

They said: "The IRFU does not tolerate any form of disrespect shown towards match officials and does not condone actions that fall below the standards expected of players representing Irish rugby.

"The IRFU are investigating the matter further internally and no additional comment will be made at this time."

It has been a swift and strong response to Aki's actions, and may spell the end of his international career.

However, some fans have been arguing that it shows hypocrisy from the IRFU and Andy Farrell, in relation to assistant coach Johnny Sexton and his referee transgressions back in 2023.

Following Leinster's 2023 Champions Cup final loss to La Rochelle, the injured Sexton confronted referee Jaco Peyper after game.

The out-half duly received a three-game suspension, but was back to finish his career at the 2023 World Cup, and was given a coaching position with Ireland soon after his retirement.

Certain supporters feel that his treatment from the IRFU was a lot more favourable than Aki is receiving.

The URC released a statement after Aki's ban.

They said: "After considering all of the submissions, the Independent Committee deemed that the Player engaged with the match official team after the game on several occasions in a manner which breached the Disciplinary Rules.

"The Independent Committee concluded that the Player's behaviour constituted verbal abuse and disrespect of a Match Official(s) under the relevant Rules. In determining its sanction, the Independent Committee felt that a suspension of six (6) weeks was appropriate, with two of those weeks suspended.

"The Committee also recognised the Player’s full regret for his actions and was grateful for the approach that he took towards the proceedings. However, given the player’s previous disciplinary record (including incidents of a similar nature) and his lack of a plea in this case, the Independent Committee could not apply mitigation to the sanction."