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The relegation match between Rugby Europe Trophy winners Portugal and Germany, last place finishers in the Rugby Europe Championship, has been officially postponed. Originally scheduled to take place on April 28 the extraordinary circumstances surrounding the Rugby Europe World Cup qualifying process will now see the match likely moved to the June test window.
Confirming the change was Michel Arpaillange, Head of Operations and Competitions of Rugby Europe. Mr. Arpaillange was also the match commissioner for the controversial match in Brussels between Belgium and Spain, with his official report contributing to World Rugby’s preference to replay the match.
Germany’s participation in the match is now uncertain with Belgium under investigation for fielding two ineligible players during the Rugby Europe Championship. There are further complications with Romania and Spain also charged with the same indiscretion.
The results of the independent hearing ordered by World Rugby could have a significant impact not only on the Rugby Europe competitions but on the World Cup Qualifiers and also the June test series. A proposed Russian tour of North America could be compromised if they are instead required to compete against Portugal for the right to play Samoa in a qualifying play-off.
