Makazole Mapimpi Blow: Springboks Star Banned for Five Matches After Red Card

Makazole Mapimpi Suspension Delivers Fresh Blow to Sharks and Springboks

The Sharks’ challenging season has suffered yet another setback as star winger Makazole Mapimpi has been handed a five-match suspension for dangerous play in their recent United Rugby Championship (URC) clash against Ulster.

His dismissal early in the second half contributed to a 34–26 home defeat — the Durban side’s fourth loss in a row.

Also Read: Pic: Siya Kolisi Enjoys Chicken Feet with Springboks Teammates Lukhanyo AM and Makazole Mapimpi

URC Confirms Verdict

The URC announced the disciplinary ruling on Wednesday, 22 October. Mapimpi faced disciplinary officer Sheriff Kathrine Mackie and accepted that the foul play incident, deemed a dangerous lifting and dropping offence under Law 9.18, merited a red card.

Major Consequences for Club and Country

The suspension arrives at a crucial stage of the season, removing one of the Sharks’ most experienced backs at a time when the team is struggling to turn form around.

It also affects the Springboks’ end-of-year Test preparations, with the double Rugby World Cup champion now sidelined for key fixtures.

As part of his ban, Mapimpi will miss:

The Sharks’ upcoming URC home match against the Scarlets
Four of South Africa’s five scheduled end-of-year internationals

Selection Challenges Ahead

The Sharks now face the demanding task of reshuffling their backline once again, while the national team must weigh alternative attacking options as they look to finish the year strongly without one of their most feared finishers.