Bordeaux Prop Poirot Cited for Post-Match Throat Grab in Champions Cup Final

Jefferson Poirot, former France captain and prop for Bordeaux-Begles, has been cited by European Professional Club Rugby (EPCR) for allegedly grasping Northampton Saints' Henry Pollock by the throat shortly after the Champions Cup final, which Bordeaux won 28-20. The incident occurred just after the full-time whistle, following a prior scuffle involving Pollock pushing a Bordeaux player, Tevita Tatafu. EPCR charged Poirot with an act contrary to good sportsmanship under Law 9.27, noting that the alleged throat grab was dangerous and had the potential to cause serious harm, with sanctions ranging from four weeks to over a year if found guilty. Northampton's director of rugby, Phil Dowson, confirmed foul play took place and that officials would address the incident, while Bordeaux players expressed frustration over perceived disrespect from Northampton in the lead-up to the final. A disciplinary hearing for Poirot is scheduled via video conference, and the case has attracted attention given the severity of the allegation and the high-profile nature of the match. The situation highlights tensions between the teams and raises questions about sportsmanship in the aftermath of intense competition.