Stade Rochelais head coach Ronan O'Gara has received a two-match touchline ban and a €3,000 fine for "disrespecting the authority of a match official" during a Top 14 match against Pau on November 30, 2025.
O'Gara was found guilty of "action against a match official," specifically of "disrespecting the authority of a match official" after repeatedly arguing with referee Jeremy Rozier.
His initial anger stemmed from the referee's decision to show a red card to La Rochelle fly-half Antoine Hastoy just 34 seconds into the match for a "kung-fu" style high kick, the fastest red card in Top 14 history.
O'Gara continued his protests after being warned, leading to his own dismissal in the 57th minute.
The initial two-week suspension was increased by one week due to his prior disciplinary record, but then reduced back to two weeks due to mitigating circumstances (remorse, admission of guilt). He also received a €3,000 fine.
Matches Affected: O'Gara served the first match of his ban during the Champions Cup game against Leicester Tigers and will miss the upcoming match against the Stormers in South Africa on Saturday, December 13, 2025. He is eligible to return on December 14, 2025.
“Mr. Ronan O’Gara was found guilty of ‘action against a match official,’ specifically of ‘disrespecting the authority of a match official.’
“The initial penalty, a two-week suspension, was the lowest level on the scale of severity.
“After taking into account the aggravating circumstance [disciplinary record], the sanction was increased by one week.
“After considering mitigating circumstances [expression of remorse, admission of guilt, and conduct before and during the hearing], the sanction was reduced by one week.
“Therefore, Mr. Ronan O’Gara is suspended for two weeks and also fined €3,000.
“As of December 10, 2025, and considering the Stade Rochelais match schedule, Mr. Ronan O’Gara will be eligible to return to play on December 14, 2025.”