Controversial referee handed Springboks vs All Blacks Test

Wednesday, 05 August 2026 at 06:20

byCharlie Elliott

Angus Gardner has been appointed to referee the third Test of the Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry series between South Africa and New Zealand, just weeks after being caught up in a controversial incident that continues to make headlines.

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The Australian official was in charge of Argentina's Nations Championship clash with England, a fiery encounter between two sides with a long-standing rivalry.

The match produced seven yellow cards before Bautista Delguy appeared to score a dramatic late try to level the contest. However, after a TMO review, Gardner ruled the score out, allowing England to secure a memorable victory.

Emotions spilled over after the final whistle, with many Los Pumas supporters furious at the outcome.

Argentina fly-half Tomas Albornoz was seen running towards Gardner before making physical contact as he argued with the officials. The referee could be heard repeatedly shouting, "Hey, hey, hey," while instructing Albornoz to back away.

World Rugby later confirmed that Albornoz will face disciplinary action under its recently introduced Match Official Abuse Sanction Process.

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A statement from the governing body read: “Tomás Albornoz has been issued with misconduct charges following Argentina’s Nations Championship match against England at Estadio Único Madre de Ciudades in Santiago del Estero on 18 July, 2026.

“In line with the remit of the Match Official Abuse Sanction Process, the charges relate to events following the final whistle. Albornoz was seen remonstrating with the match officials following the final whistle. The hearing details will be confirmed shortly.”

World Rugby added:

“The Match Official Abuse Sanction Process was introduced to complement Regulation 18 and provide a clearer and more consistent framework for addressing public criticism of match officials, particularly where such comments may contribute to wider online abuse.

“Developed by a cross-game working group including competition owner, match official playing and coaching representation and championed by Union CEOs, the process reflects a unified commitment to support and protect match officials.”

The situation almost deteriorated further, with members of Argentina's coaching staff reportedly intervening to stop other players from confronting the officials.

Gardner was also subjected to abuse as he left the pitch, with an object thrown from the crowd during the unsavoury scenes at Estadio Único Madre de Ciudades.

The reaction from players, staff and supporters prompted widespread backing for Gardner across the rugby world, with many rallying behind one of the game's most respected referees.

That support has now been followed by another major appointment, with Gardner selected to take charge of the third Test between the Springboks and All Blacks in Johannesburg on 5 September.

The full refereeing appointments are as follows: