France Coach Criticizes Refereeing Bias in New Zealand Rugby Series

France head coach Fabien Galthie has publicly criticized the refereeing in their rugby Test series against New Zealand, expressing concerns over a lack of neutrality and perceived bias favoring the All Blacks as the home team. Galthie highlighted two key incidents from their 43-17 loss in Wellington where he believed France was unfairly treated: an offside entry by Jordie Barrett during a maul that should have resulted in a penalty try and yellow card, and an offside interception by Rieko Ioane that also warranted a penalty try and yellow card. He stressed the need for referees to officiate as if the match were on neutral ground rather than favoring New Zealand, which he feels is being treated like a small nation with less consideration. Despite acknowledging the score difference, Galthie insists these decisions significantly impacted the outcomes and will be addressed with the referee ahead of the final Test in Hamilton. The global governing body World Rugby, responsible for appointing referees, has been contacted for comment on the matter. Galthie also noted the physical and mental challenge his squad has faced during the tour and emphasized their commitment to compete in the concluding match.