France fined for encroaching on New Zealand haka in World Cup final

The French players advanced towards the All Blacks during the haka (GETTY IMAGES)

France have been fined £2500 for advancing on the New Zealand haka before Sunday's World Cup final, the International Rugby Board have confirmed.

Les Bleus were supposed to remain behind the 10-metre line in their own half but instead advanced towards the All Blacks in a v-formation, led by captain Thierry Dusautoir.

The IRB stated today "as with other in-tournament breaches of the tournament cultural ritual protocol and as per pre-tournament communication with teams, RWCL will impose the standard sanction of £2500".

France coach Marc Lievremont defended his side's actions at Eden Park before a match they lost 8-7. He said: "He (Dusautoir) tried to stop them, there was a bit of movement bringing them forward.

"But a fine? I don't know."

PA