Sharks winger Makazole Mapimpi will now face a lengthy suspension after being found guilty of committing foul play in their match against Ulster on the weekend.
The Durban-based franchise has found it difficult to find its form this season. With one draw and two defeats in their opening three rounds of the competition, coach John Plumtree was hoping that the return of the Springboks would improve their chances of a victory.
This was far from the case. Instead, a yellow card to prop Vincent Kock followed by a red to wing Makazole Mapimpi ensured that the touring Ulster had the last laugh on the night.
Mpimpi recently received a five-match suspension for a dangerous tip-tackle on Ulster fullback Michael Lowry in the 55th minute of the match at Kings Park.
Disciplinary ruling
Judicial Officer, Sheriff Katherine Mackie, who oversaw the disciplinary process, noted that Mapimpi was guilty of breaking Law 9.18, which stipulates: “A player must not lift an opponent off the ground and drop or drive that player so that their head and/or upper body make contact with the ground.”
Sheriff Mackie found that the incident met the red card threshold, with an entry point of low-end warranting six weeks. Meanwhile, he has received one week of mitigation after acknowledging and accepting that an act of foul play was committed. This has seen it reduced to a five-game suspension.
Mapimpi sits out Springbok tour
Earlier this week, Mapimpi was one of several players placed on standby for the Springboks. Following the ruling, his inclusion will no longer be possible.
He will now be unavailable for selection in the following matches:
- Sharks v Scarlets, 25 October 2025 BKT URC
- South Africa v Japan, 1 November 2025, Castle Lager Outgoing Tour
- France v South Africa, 8 November 2025, Quilter Nations Series
- Italy v South Africa, 15 November 2025, Quilter Nations Series
- Ireland v South Africa, 22 November 2025, Quilter Nations Series
