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Following the disqualification of Spain from Rugby World Cup 2023, Spain Rugby, the Federación Española de Rugby (FER) are taking action. Spain was kicked-out of RWC 2023 for breaching player eligibility laws.
Prop Gavin van den Berg was not eligible to play for Spain but did so against Holland. van den Berg did not complete the requirements of three years consecutive residency because he returned to his home country in between domestic seasons for longer than is allowed under Regulation 8.
van den Berg had been incorrectly cleared to play for Spain by both the FER and World Rugby. Those clearances were made based on false documentation provided by the player and his club Alcobendas. van den Berg’s social media presence alerted other unions of the breach and an appeal was made to World Rugby to investigate the matter, with an independent panel confirming his ineligibility.
Following Spain’s disqualification from RWC 2023, the FER has confirmed that it is taking the Gavin van den Berg falsification case to Prosecutor’s Office.
In a press release the FER confirmed that a disciplinary procedure is ongoing against the Alcobendas Rugby Club. The FER has been investigating the matter in which it became known that a potential modification of an official document had taken place. This action granted Gavin Van den Berg eligibility status.
The FER is taking action against the Alcobendas Rugby Club. They include an economic sanction and a disqualification or relegation from the Liga de División de Honor. Furthermore, van den Berg’s rugby career in Spain will be terminated.
The case will be brought to the attention of the Prosecutor’s Office. It will occur on Friday to investigate alleged forgery of van den Berg’s passport. It may lead to criminal consequences.
This coming Sunday’s Copa del Rey Final has been postponed. It was scheduled to take place at La Cartuja Stadium in Seville. Alcobendas Rugby were to play SilverStorm El Salvador.
