World Rugby has announced Joe Marler will face a misconduct hearing for his 'gypsy boy' slur at Wales' Samson Lee during the Six Nations clash at Twickenham on March 12.

Marler escaped punishment from Six Nations chiefs over the incident, which sparked a major outcry among fans.

Following that decision World Rugby stepped in and have now revealed Marler could face sanctions.

A statement said: "World Rugby is of the view that the comments amount to misconduct and/or a breach of the code of conduct under World Rugby Regulation 20 and should have been considered by an independent process.

"In the absence of such a process by Six Nations Rugby, World Rugby is exercising its right to take appropriate action before an independent judicial committee.

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