Josaia Raisuqe

 The January 8 match in the south of France ended in farce after the referee blew the full-time whistle after play had stopped with Nevers defending their try line. 

Overcome with joy, Raisuque reacted by lifting referee Millotte from behind high into the air, an intervention the official didn’t take kindly to as he red-carded the celebrating Nevers player.

Josaia Raisuqe says he deeply regrets the incident, which is either hilarious or outrageous, depending on who you talk to.

Raisuqe hoisted referee Laurent Millotte into the air in a moment that had become a viral hit in rugby circles. Milotte gave him a red card after Beziers players made a huge fuss, hoping to have a the crucial penalty reversed.

Now Raisuqe has told Midi Olympique that he lifted the referee in joy and meant no ill will towards him and how he has endured a hellish week of no sleep as his phone won’t stop ringing.