The NRL has taken the unprecedented step of suspending Raiders coach Ricky Stuart for a week over a post-match slur against Panthers player Jaemon Salmon.
He has also been slapped with a $25,000 fine.
Stuart labelled Salmon a “weak gutted dog person” in his media conference following the side’s loss to Penrith on Saturday.
The comments came after Salmon lashed out with his boot during the game, hitting Tom Starling in the groin.
Stuart’s issue with Salmon is believed to date back more than a decade when he played with Stuart’s son.
The ban means Stuart can’t have any involvement in the coaching of the side until next Tuesday and can’t attend training or the side’s match this weekend.
He’s also been barred from giving any instructions to players, other coaching staff or club officials.
NRL CEO Andrew Abdo said there was no place in the game for those sorts of comments.
“Leaders need to set the standard in the game. The comments are completely unacceptable from any individual let alone an official of such experience and standing.” Mr Abdo said.
“This is a highly unusual case, and we have taken the significant step of proposing a suspension from his duties for one week. This will be a full suspension precluding Ricky from having any involvement with any club activity either in person or remotely. Furthermore, the fine must not be paid by the Club but by Ricky himself.”
Stuart has been given five business days to respond to the breach notice.
