France international Yoann Maestri fined for misconduct

French international Yoann Maestri has been slammed with a fine of 30,000 euros (£26,000) for his critical comment about referee Wayne Barnes following the controversial Six Nations clash against Wales in Paris.

The game which saw 21 minutes of additional time included a series of scrums close to Wales' line and eventually France riding on a 99th minute try from Damien Chouly and a conversion from Camille Lopez won the encounter 20-18.

50 per cent of his fine is due to be paid in 30 days and the remaining amount is suspended until the end of the next season. The Toulouse lock appeared before a disciplinary panel on Wednesday in London and pleaded guilty to the charge.

A statement released by Six Nations confirmed the news on the 29-year-old.

"Maestri accepted he had committed an act of misconduct and openly apologised for making the comments," read the statement.

"The disciplinary committee imposed on Mr Maestri a fine of 30,000 euros, with one half payable within 30 days, and one half suspended until the end of the 2017-18 season.

"The disciplinary committee also ordered Mr Maestri to pay Six Nations' legal costs.

"Both parties were reminded of their right of appeal."