World Rugby has announced the Emirates Match Officials for the quarter-finals of Rugby World Cup 2023.
The wider match official group remains in contention for future appointments at the tournament.
World Rugby Chairman Sir Bill Beaumont said: “I am full of admiration for how the match officials have performed at this Rugby World Cup and the example that they set as ambassadors and guardians of the sport’s values.
“They have played their full part in what will be remembered as a compelling pool phase. I would like to congratulate Jaco, Wayne, Mathieu and Ben, the assistant referees and TMOs, and we now look forward to four compelling matches on the road to determining who will lift the Webb Ellis Cup at Stade de France on 28 October.”
World Rugby High Performance 15s Match Officials Manager Joël Jutge added: “Congratulations to those appointed. It was a very difficult selection as the performance level has been high. As a team, the match officials have worked hard to achieve consistency of performance and clarity of decision-making that enables the players to do what they do best.
“There is a strong culture within this group and a strong understanding with the teams owing to the preparation achieved over the last year and beyond. While it is the referees who will get the recognition for the appointments, this is a team game. We have an excellent team of referees, assistant referees and TMOs with a strong team ethic for the group to be the best it can be as a whole.”
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Jaco Peyper (South Africa) will referee the first quarter-final between Wales and Argentina at Stade de Marseille in Marseille on 14 October (17:00 CET).
Peyper, born on January 25, 1980, in South Africa, is a distinguished rugby union referee. His career has seen him officiate at the highest levels, including Rugby World Cups and Rugby Championship matches. Known for his clear communication and firm but fair rulings, Peyper has established himself as a respected figure in the rugby community.
Beyond the field, he is a former teacher, displaying his commitment to education. Peyper's contributions to the sport have made him a trusted presence on the global rugby stage.
Referee, Jaco Peyper watches the TMO for a potential shoulder charge during the Autumn Nations Match between England and Australia at Twickenham on 13 November 2021. Photo: Micah Crook/PPAUK
Wayne Barnes (England) will then referee Ireland v New Zealand at Stade de France in Saint-Denis on 14 October (21:00 CET).
Barnes is a renowned English rugby union referee, born on April 20, 1979, in England. With a career spanning over two decades, Barnes has officiated numerous high-stakes matches, including multiple Rugby World Cups and Six Nations contests.
Known for his calm demeanor and precise decision-making, he has earned the respect of players, coaches, and fans alike. Off the field, Barnes is a qualified barrister, showcasing his intellectual prowess alongside his on-field expertise.
His dedication to the sport and impeccable officiating continue to make him a prominent figure in the world of rugby.
Referee, Wayne Barnes during the Gallagher Premiership Rugby Match between Bristol Bears and Bath Rugby at Ashton Gate on 29 Jan. Photo: Phil Mingo/PPAUK
Mathieu Raynal (France) will take charge of the third quarter-final between England and Fiji at the Stade de Marseille in Marseille on 15 October (17:00 CET).
Raynal, born on August 11, 1981, in France, is a prominent rugby union referee. His career has seen him officiate in prestigious competitions like the Six Nations and the Top 14. Raynal is known for his strong command of the game, enforcing the rules with precision and consistency.
His passion for rugby began as a player before transitioning into refereeing, where he has excelled. Raynal's dedication to the sport and his unwavering commitment to fair play continue to make him a respected figure in the rugby officiating community.
Referee, Mathieu Raynal during the Heineken Champions Cup Round 4 match between Gloucester Rugby and Exeter Chiefs at Kingsholm Stadium, Gloucester, Gloucestershire on December 14. - PHOTO: Tom Sandberg/PPAUK
Ben O’Keeffe (New Zealand) will referee France v South Africa at Stade de France in Saint-Denis on 15 October (21:00 CET)
O'Keeffe, born on May 23, 1989, in New Zealand, is a highly regarded rugby union referee. Rising through the ranks quickly, O'Keeffe has officiated in key tournaments like Super Rugby and the Rugby World Cup. Known for his approachable style and clear decision-making, he has gained the trust of players and coaches alike.
O'Keeffe's passion for rugby extends beyond the field, as he has been actively involved in coaching and development programs. His commitment to the sport and his adept refereeing skills continue to leave a lasting impact on the world of rugby.
Referee, Ben O'Keeffe watches the TMO for a tackle against George North of Wales during the Guinness Six Nations Match between England and Wales at Twickenham Stadium, Twickenham, London on March 7 2020. - PHOTO: Cameron Geran/PPAUK
