French authorities oppose 20-minute red cards promoted by World Rugby

French authorities are joining forces with players to oppose plans by World Rugby to change its regulations with the introduction of a 20-minute red card, saying it poses a health risk.

The sport’s governing body said last week that the possibility of replacing a red-carded player with a team-mate after 20 minutes was moving closer to global adoption following “successful trials.”

The sent-off player would not, though, be able to return for the rest of the match.

The proposed new law is part of a package of changes “designed to enhance the viewing and playing experience,” World Rugby said.

In a joint statement, the French rugby federation, the league and the players’ union Provale disagreed. Ahead of a World Rugby council meeting next month, they said they were firmly opposed to the adoption of the rule and called on the sport’s governing body “to base itself on evidence before modifying such a crucial sanction, particularly with regard to the impact on player safety.”

“For the FFR, LNR and Provale, the red card is a crucial tool that deters unsporting behaviour and protects the physical integrity of players,” they said.