A brilliant new montage has been put together which shows the funniest moments of French referee Romain Poite’s illustrious career with the whistle.
Poite made his international debut in 2007 and has officiated at an impressive four World Cup tournaments so far, making him one of the most experienced referees in the game.
However the 45-year-old divides opinion among rugby fans due to some of his decisions at the very top level which have made headlines across the world.
The five-minute video begins at Twickenham during a Six Nations game between England and Italy when Poite hilariously tells James Haskell “I’m a referee, not a coach” during the ‘ruck gate scandal’ in 2017 which almost cost the home side the win.
The compilation also features some comic moments from the Frenchman such as his funny warm up technique, unfortunate injuries and unusual domineer towards team captains.
However one of the funniest moments to come from Poite’s career was during a Top 14 game in 2017 when he was hit in the testes by a stray ball as he prepared to lead a scrum. The official was left almost on his knees as he nursed the pain which every man can relate to.
Controversy has also played a significant role in his career and arguably Poite’s biggest decision came during the conclusion of the 2017 British & Irish Lions Tour to New Zealand when he opted not to penalise Welsh hooker Ken Owens for playing the ball in an offside position.
Had Poite awarded the penalty then the All Blacks would have almost certainly won the series 2-1, however he gave a scrum instead which meant the series finished a draw after the three games.
The decision took centre stage on newspapers all around the world and rugby fans still question his reasoning today.
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