Fuimaono-Sapolu banned from all rugby

Controversial Samoa centre Eliota Fuimaono-Sapolu has been provisionally banned from all rugby after failing to turn up for a disciplinary hearing today (Tuesday).

The Gloucester back was charged with misconduct after accusing Welsh referee Nigel Owen of racism and bias via Twitter, but he did not attend the hearing in front of Judicial Officer Judge Jeff Blackett.

Fuimaono-Sapolu had been previously warned about his social networking after he likened Samoa's tournament schedule to apartheid, slavery and the Holocaust.

In the player's absence, Blackett adjourned the case and provisionally suspended the player from all participation in rugby pending a new hearing.