French rugby chief Serge Simon has demanded answers over the picture of referee Jaco Peyper that has circulated on social media.
The image appears to show Peyper mimicking the actions of Sebastien Vahaamahina .
Earlier that evening, the experienced South African official showed the French lock a red card after he recklessly threw his elbow into the jaw of Welsh back-rower Aaron Wainwright.
It appeared a deliberate act of thuggery and there were no complaints over the sanction handed down by Peyper.
Late last night, an image appeared on social media with Peyper pretending to elbow a Welsh fan.
“This photo, if it is true, is shocking and explanations will be necessary,” tweeted FFR vice president Simon.
France looked destined for the semi-finals of the World Cup in Japan up until the lock’s brainless act.
Les Bleus were utterly dominant but the game, ironically, just as it did eight years ago, turned on the red card.
Momentum swung back Wales’ way and they claimed a decisive score in the 74th minute to win by a point.
World Rugby are said to be preparing a statement on the matter.
