The Australian coach of French rugby club Stade Francais, Michael Cheika, has been fined 20,000 euros for comments he made during his side's European Challenge Cup final loss in May.

Tournament organisers European Rugby Cup (ERC) fined Cheika for insulting comments made to match officials during the halftime break and after the fulltime whistle in the 19-18 loss to Harlequins.

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

"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," chairman Simon Thomas said.

Paris-based Stade were unhappy with several decisions in the Cardiff match, which they lost 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.

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