Etzebeth accepts 12-match ban but insists eye-gouge was accidental

Springbok lock Eben Etzebeth has accepted a 12-match suspension for an eye-gouge on Wales flanker Alex Mann during last month’s 73–0 win in Cardiff, but maintains the contact was unintentional.

Writing on social media after the disciplinary hearing, the 34-year-old said he made a mistake and would serve the ban, yet stressed he would “never” deliberately target an opponent’s eyes.

Etzebeth claims Mann struck him first with an open hand and that his own attempted retaliation was redirected by multiple players, causing accidental contact near the eyes. He acknowledged the incident looked bad in slow motion but hoped the additional context would change public perception.

Eben Etzebeth's post on Instagram:

Hey Everyone

I've been quiet, but now that my hearing is done I think I owe everyone an explanation

First of all, this is not a post to show that I was not guilty, I accept guilt. I made a mistake and I'm willing to serve a suspension which I… pic.twitter.com/MM9WQ2gGUM

— Jared Wright (@jaredwright17) December 10, 2025