The Leinster great, who did not play in the final due to injury, criticised the South African referee, Jaco Peyper, from Bloemfontein for his handling of the final which was won by the French Top14 team, La Rochelle.

La Rochelle won the final 27-26 for back-to-back titles, and despite not having played in it, Sexton exchanged words with Peyper at the end of the match in Dublin.

The EPCR confirmed via a statement that Sexton will appear before an independent disciplinary panel for his misconduct.

“Misconduct complaints against the Leinster Rugby player, Johnny Sexton, and against Leinster Rugby, arising from the Heineken Champions Cup final on Saturday 20 May 2023, have been lodged by EPCR.

“After thorough fact finding and careful review of Johnny Sexton’s behaviour towards match officials after the match, in accordance with EPCR regulations, the EPCR Disciplinary Officer has submitted misconduct complaints so that an independent disciplinary panel can determine whether any misconduct has been committed by Mr Sexton (through his behaviour) and Leinster (through failing to exercise reasonable control over Mr Sexton).

“The complaints were referred to the Chairman of the Independent Disciplinary Panel, who has appointed Christopher Quinlan KC (England, Chair), Adam Casselden SC (Australia) and Marcello D’Orey (Portugal) as the independent Disciplinary Committee to hear the case and consider whether misconduct took place.”

Sexton could face a lengthy ban for his behaviour and this could jeopardise his chances of playing in the Rugby World Cup for the last time.

The hearing will take place by video conference on 13 July.

Morgan Piek OFM Sport