21 October 2026
The DHL Stormers have rejected a three-week suspension proposed for hooker JJ Kotzé. The decision triggers an independent disciplinary hearing via video conference today to contest the citation. The challenge follows Kotzé's 20-minute red card during the Cape side's 49-12 Investec Champions Cup victory over the Bristol Bears.
French referee Kevin Bralley dismissed the front-rower in the 33rd minute following a head-on collision with Bristol captain Kieran Marmion. After reviewing match footage, an EPCR Foul Play Review Committee recommended a three-week ban. The Stormers opted to decline the initial sanction, sending the matter to a full judicial panel.
The virtual hearing will be chaired by England's Daniel Gore, alongside panel members Bogdan Zebega of Romania and Wales' Chris Morgan. A sustained three-week ban would sideline Kotzé for upcoming United Rugby Championship fixtures against the Scarlets and Ulster, as well as the local derby against the Sharks on 5 December.
Despite the first-half disruption, John Dobson’s charges rallied to secure a dominant seven-try, bonus-point triumph at Ashton Gate. The Cape franchise currently anchors itself at the summit of Pool 3. The EPCR disciplinary panel is expected to release its final verdict later this evening.