Gavin Henson Sacked By Cardiff Blues After Drink-Fuelled Behaviour On Flight

Feeling Blue - Cardiff Sack Henson
|

Gavin Henson has been sacked by Cardiff Blues after drink-fuelled behaviour on a flight.

The Wales international has been "dismissed with immediate effect", and the Blues' chief executive Richard Holland said: "The Cardiff Blues management have discussed the matter at length but have acted swiftly since the incident occurred on Saturday morning.

"Gavin admitted himself that his behaviour was totally unacceptable and the immediate termination of his contract sends out a clear message that behaviour like that will not be tolerated at the Blues.

"We have a duty to our supporters and sponsors to protect the good name of Cardiff Blues and those associated with our brand."

Henson apologised for his "inexcusable" mid-flight antics during a flight on the morning after a Cardiff Blues game on Sunday.

He said: "I have let my team mates, coaches, management, sponsors and indeed my family down with my actions.

"Drinking on that plane was inexcusable and I know that I must take responsibility for it."

A two-time Grand Slam winner with Wales in 2005 and 2008, Henson has been a controversial figure during his rugby career.

He injured his ankle in March 2009 and took 18 months of unpaid leave from Ospreys five months later, but has courted the mainstream and notoriety.

Flybe, who Henson was flying with, have banned Henson from flying with them for six months, also released a statement.

A spokesman for the airline said: "The safety of our passengers and staff is Flybe's number one priority and as such the airline has a zero tolerance attitude to unruly behaviour on board our aircraft.

"We are grateful for Mr Henson's apology following Saturday's flight from Glasgow to Cardiff.

"However, in line with company policy, we have written to him, informing him that he will be banned from Flybe services for a period of six months."