Steve Diamond receives six-week ban for verbal abuse of Match Officials

Steve Diamond, Director of Rugby at Newcastle Falcons, has been handed a six-week suspension after admitting to verbally abusing match officials following the team's narrow 17-15 loss to Exeter Chiefs on March 29.

The Rugby Football Union (RFU) deemed his conduct as prejudicial to the interests of the game.

The incident occurred shortly after a contentious moment in the match where Exeter's Tamati Tua appeared to elbow Newcastle wing Alex Hearle in the head.

The alleged foul play went unreviewed by the Television Match Official (TMO), leading to frustration within the Falcons' camp. Hearle has since been sidelined due to the injury sustained.

In the aftermath, Diamond confronted the match officials in the tunnel, reportedly stating, "I hope you c***s can sleep tonight." Approximately 45 minutes later, he approached the TMO during a post-match meal, telling him twice, "you need to retire."

Diamond later issued apologies via email to the officials involved.

The independent disciplinary panel, while acknowledging Diamond's remorse, criticized his actions as "wholly unacceptable" and emphasized that such behavior undermines the core values of rugby.

This is not Diamond's first offense; he previously served a six-week ban in 2017 for similar misconduct.

Diamond expressed his frustration over the lack of accountability for match officials, stating that while he faces suspension for his comments, officials often continue without repercussions after contentious decisions. He highlighted the need for greater transparency and accountability within the officiating system.

With this suspension, Diamond will miss the remainder of Newcastle's Premiership season. The Falcons currently sit at the bottom of the league table, intensifying the challenges they face in the concluding fixtures.