France fined for haka breach

France have been fined £10,000 for advancing on the New Zealand haka before Sunday's World Cup final between the two sides.

The International Rugby Board handed down the ruling stating that Les Bleus had failed to stay the required distance from the haka, behind the 10-metre line in their own half.

France captain Thierry Dusautoir led his teammates in a V-formation as they steadily progressed towards the customary war dance.

Speaking before the fine was announced, Dusautoir said: "At one stage we were so close to them that they wanted to kiss the New Zealanders, but I told them to take it easy.

"It was a great moment and a moment we will remember all our lives."

New Zealand won the contest 8-7 to claim the trophy at Eden Park in Auckland.