Former England star Maggie Alphonsi blasted the Rugby Football Union after council member Matthew Smith faced a seven‑month ban for a Facebook post questioning her knowledge of men’s rugby. Smith, chairman of Warwickshire RFU and a chartered quantity surveyor, admitted the charge and apologized for the public remarks.

Smith’s comment appeared during the France vs England match while Alphonsi worked as an ITV pundit. The disciplinary panel cited breach of code and potential reputational damage to the RFU, stripping Smith of council privileges, including tickets, meals and travel.

Alphonsi called the punishment “very disappointed” and warned that sexism persists in rugby. She noted Smith still holds influence despite his apology, demanding that views themselves be addressed.

The incident underscores the RFU’s ongoing struggle with gender bias and signals that governing bodies must enforce stricter standards against discriminatory behaviour.