Mapimpi hit with five-match ban after Rugby Championship red card
Sharks’ Makazole Mapimpi suspended for five weeks after red card against Ulster in United Rugby Championship.
Zuko Komisa
Springbok and Sharks winger Makazole Mapimpi has been handed a five-match suspension following the red card he received during the recent United Rugby Championship (URC) clash against Ulster.
The veteran player was dismissed in the 55th minute of the match in Durban, which saw the Sharks suffer a 34-26 defeat, their fourth consecutive loss of the season.
The URC confirmed the disciplinary outcome on Wednesday, 22 October. The sanction relates to an offence under Law 9.18 concerning dangerous lifting and dropping an opponent.
WATCH THE TACKLE HERE:
Makazole Mapimpi has been banned for 5 weeks after this tackle, pretty much ruling him out of the end of year tour and at 35-years-old, probably signalling the end of his Springbok career. pic.twitter.com/3KWsCePEEG
— Grant Constable (@GrantConstable) October 22, 2025
Mapimpi appeared before the disciplinary officer, Sheriff Kathrine Mackie, where he accepted that his act of foul play warranted a red card.
The ban is a significant blow for both his club and country.
The double Rugby World Cup winner will miss the following:
- The Sharks’ upcoming home URC game against the Scarlets this weekend.
- Four of the Springboks’ five scheduled end-of-year international tour fixtures.
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