Women’s rugby star Sinead Peach is facing a potentially lengthy suspension following accusations of a startling comment towards a male referee. Video evidence appears to show Peach making an offensive remark to official Oliver Salmon, generating international headlines and leaving supporters bewildered, after the incident during the Women’s Super League clash between her York Valkyrie team and St Helens.

Following York’s penalty near their try line whilst trailing 16-8 in the 79th minute, skipper Peach received her marching orders for dissent after becoming incensed by the referee’s ruling. Whilst her alleged words weren’t captured on the television coverage, the furious official’s response was audible as he brandished the red card.

“I’m not having you saying, ‘Which one are you s******g?’ You’re off,” referee Oliver Salmon can be heard declaring.

The moment left the commentators speechless and triggered reactions online as distant as New Zealand and Australia as the footage spread rapidly online.

England international Peach will now appear before a disciplinary panel on Thursday, officials have confirmed. With minimal precedent for such language, predicting the duration of any potential ban proves challenging.

Peach has remained silent regarding the controversy.

Supporters expressed their disbelief across social media platforms.

One remarked: “Crazy thing to say to a ref just begging for the sending off there.” Another person chimed in: “Imagine a male player said this to a female referee! Lifetime ban, some ridiculous fine and publicly shamed! The outcry would be massive!”

Peach, aged 27, has guided York to consecutive Grand Final triumphs in 2023 and 2024, and was honoured as Woman of Steel in October 2023.

Officials from York were not immediately available for comment.