World Rugby has issued misconduct charges against Argentine fly-half Tomas Albornoz following an aggressive confrontation with referee Angus Gardner after Argentina's 31-24 defeat to England in the Nations Championship.
The incident occurred in Santiago del Estero on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, after the final whistle.
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Albornoz was seen physically confronting match officials, throwing the match ball down, and marching away in anger before being led away by teammates and staff.
The governing body triggered disciplinary action under the Match Official Abuse Sanction Process.
If convicted of physical misconduct against Gardner, Albornoz faces a potential suspension ranging from two matches to 18 weeks.
The confrontation erupted after Gardner and television match official Brett Cronan disallowed a late potential equalizer by wing Bautista Delguy.
They ruled Delguy grounded the ball simultaneously on the try-line and corner flag while denying a penalty try for high tackles by England's defenders.
World Rugby's Statement on the Process
"The hearing details will be confirmed shortly.
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The Match Official Abuse Sanction Process was introduced to complement Regulation 18 and provide a clearer and more consistent framework for addressing public criticism of match officials, particularly where such comments may contribute to wider online abuse," World Rugby stated.
The international federation highlighted that the unified regulatory framework was established to safeguard referees across all international fixtures.
"Developed by a cross-game working group including competition owner, match official, playing and coaching representation and championed by Union CEOs, the process reflects a unified commitment to support and protect match officials," World Rugby added.
Tensions extended off the pitch when Argentina head coach Felipe Contepomi abruptly walked out of his post-match press conference, accusing the visiting team of disrespect due to loud celebratory music coming from England's locker room.
Neither team received player citings during the match despite early scuffles.
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The Nations Championship and the Union Argentina de Rugby continue investigating reports of a projectile thrown at Gardner as he exited the field.
