NRL 2021: Ricky Stuart under investigation for alleged referee attack

The NRL has launched an investigation into a sideline incident involving Raiders coach Ricky Stuart and referee Henry Perenara.

An animated Ricky Stuart at GIO Stadium on Saturday. Picture: Gregg Porteous/NRL Photos

Canberra Raiders coach Ricky Stuart is under investigation over his sideline behaviour and allegations he called out ‘you f…ing disgrace’ towards the end of Saturday’s emotional loss to the New Zealand Warriors.

Stuart was shocked when contacted by The Daily Telegraph on Sunday, informing him he had been included in the official ground manager’s report.

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It is alleged the Raiders coach dropped the F bomb in abuse directed at referee Henry Perenara from his sideline coaching position, which he strongly denies.

“I didn’t go anywhere near him or say anything to him,” Stuart said.

“Like 13 and a half thousand other people I was singing out and venting my frustration but it was not directed at any individual.

“I’ll always put my hand up when I’m wrong and embarrassed about it.

“If they want to take the further then bring it on.

An animated Ricky Stuart at GIO Stadium on Saturday. Picture: Gregg Porteous/NRL Photos

“What I witnessed yesterday (Saturday) was disappointing because it took the focus off one of the greatest team performances I’ve been involved in.”

After the game an upset Stuart spoke for only one minute then walked out of his press conference.

It was obvious he was furious about the refereeing.

Perenara was promoted from reserve grade to handle the game after Matt Cecchin fell ill.

The Warriors scored via a try from a blatant forward pass.

The NRL match review committee is checking video and audio footage from the sideline before determining if a breach notice will be issued.