Warrington Wolves’ Josh McGuire has been banned for seven matches after using ‘unacceptable language’ relating to disability discrimination in a pre-season friendly.
McGuire was dismissed from Wolves’ game versus Leigh Leopards on February 4 following an interaction with Leopards’ Taealoaloa Amone.
The latter was found not guilty for the same offence.
‘Unacceptable language’ warrants a Grade F charge – the most serious under Rugby Football League (RFL) rules and carries a minimum of a six-game suspension.
The RFL announced the decision on Tuesday after the exchange was referred to an independent tribunal.
The 32-year-old has also been fined £1,000 and will undergo mandatory education following the suspension.
Warrington kick-off the new Betfred Super League season tomorrow when they take on 2022 finalists Leeds Rhinos at the Halliwell Jones Stadium.
McGuire had been named in the squad prior to the RFL’s decision yesterday.
The Australian is now unavailable until the Wire’s Super League match against Catalans Dragons on April 8.
The club are ‘unlikely‘ to appeal the suspension.
McGuire signed with the Wire from Australian team St. George Illawarra Dragons in November.
(Featured image credit: Alamy images under agreed licence)
