Spain’s appeal to be disqualified from the Rugby World Cup 2023 has been rejected.
They were awarded a World Cup spot in March for the first time since 1994, but were then stripped of their position after World Rugby determined that they had used an ineligible player during qualification.
Spain has lost their place at the World Cup for the second consecutive time, each time for the same offense.
Romania will replace them.
World Rugby stated that the Independent Appeal Committee had reviewed the decision of the Independent Judicial Committee on the basis of the evidence.
“After considering detailed submissions from World Rugby (Spanish Union) and World Rugby (World Rugby), the Independent Appeal Committee denied the appeal.”
Spain were given a £25,000 fine and will also have to pay a £50,000 suspended fine from a previous eligibility breach Qualify for the 2019 World Cup.
Portugal now has the chance to secure their spot in Pool B after Spain was defeated by Romania. Portugal will be playing in a final qualifier tournament in November.
From 8 September to 28 October 2023, the World Cup will be held in France.