Peyper, who was in charge of the Rugby World Cup quarter-final between Wales in France is seen in the photo, seeming mocking the French lock Sebastien Vahaamahina.

In the 49th minute of the contest, Peyper, rightly red-carded Vahaamahina after the player struck the Welsh flanker, Aaron Wainright, in their face with an elbow.

This saw France not only being reduced to 14-men but also ultimately proved to be the decisive moment of the game as Les Blues conceded their 12 point lead to be knocked out with a 20-19 defeat.

The image which spread like a wildfire on social media has drawn a lot of criticism from French fans.

The governing body of the sport, World Rugby, said via a statement that they are in the process of establishing the facts.

“World Rugby is aware of a picture on social media of referee Jaco Peyper with a group of Wales fans taken after last night’s quarter-final between Wales and France in Oita.

“It would be inappropriate to comment further while we are establishing the facts.”

At this stage, World Rugby has not released the list of officials for this weekends' semi-finals, and they are some who felt that Peyper could have been in considered for the England vs. All Blacks semi-final in Toyko on Saturday.

@MorganPiek OFM Sport