Michael Cheika, the Australian coach of Stade Francais, has been fined €20,000 of which €10,000 have been suspended for insulting comments he made during his side's European Challenge Cup Final defeat to Harlequins on May 20.

Tournament organisers European Rugby Cup (ERC) fined Cheika for the out-of-place comments made to match officials during the half-time break, and to an ERC staff member after the full-time whistle.

The ERC said that €10,000 of the fine would be suspended until June 30, 2013 on condition that Cheika commits no further acts of misconduct during that period.

Chairman Simon Thomas said: "In reaching its decision, the independent disciplinary committee had at the forefront of its mind one of the core values of rugby, that of respect, which match officials and others involved in the game are entitled to be shown at all times."

Paris-based Stade were unhappy with several decisions in a match they only lost 18-19 in Cardiff following a late try that was converted by All Black Nick Evans.

Cheika, speaking at a post-match press conference, said: "Once again we came undone due to the shortcomings of, you know. I don't think I should say it because I will only get in trouble."

Cheika had a difficult first season at Stade - after joining from a highly successful spell with Leinster - where they failed to reach the French championship play-offs.

Financial problems, which threatened the club with relegation to the third division before resulting in a change of ownership, forced them to release several of their brighter stars replacing them with seasoned ageing veterans.

Cheika, who was also found liable for the hearing costs, has the right to appeal.

AFP