England and Gloucester fly half Danny Cipriani has avoided further sanction from an independent RFU disciplinary panel in respect of the nightclub incident which occurred during a pre-season tour to Jersey, leading to criminal charges of common assault and resisting arrest. Cipriani was fined £2,000 by the magistrates court, and a similar amount by his club following internal disciplinary proceedings.
Following a five hour hearing, an independent RFU disciplinary panel held that whilst Cipriani was guilty of conduct prejudicial to the interests of the game, he should face no further sanction, either financial or in terms of suspension, leaving him free to commence his career with his new club and focus on the opportunity of making Eddie Jones’ England World Cup squad.
Paul Gilroy QC, instructed by Gloucester Rugby, appeared before the RFU panel on the player’s behalf.
For media coverage please see The Guardian, ITV News, BBC Sport, and the Independent.