Judges in Argentina are on Friday expected to start a detailed review of evidence that could lead to the dismissal of rape charges levelled against two French rugby players.
Issued on: 18/10/2024 – 12:24
1 min
Hugo Auradou and Oscar Jegou, both 21, were accused of aggravated rape on 7 July, following France’s opening match of their South American tour in Mendoza, western Argentina.
The men admit to having sexual relations with a 39-year-old woman whom they met at a nightclub. The incident took place at the Diplomatic Hotel in Mendoza.
The woman claims the acts were non-consensual and violent, while the players insist otherwise. If convicted, they face sentences of between eight and 20 years in prison.
Lawyers for the woman and the players will argue on 18 and 25 October in private hearings whether the case should be dropped.
The judges are expected to rule either immediately after the second session or within a few days.
While Auradou and Jegou were taken to Mendoza following their arrest in Buenos Aires, France played against Uruguay and another match against Argentina.
Discipline crackdown
In the wake of the incident, French rugby chiefs have vowed to crack down on discipline during official tours, especially after games.
“The model that we’ve had for years, based on empowerment and taking responsibility, is not working,” said Florian Grill, president of the French rugby federation.
“There was a kind of acceptance of these excesses. We’re going to come up with a plan that includes controls and financial or sporting sanctions.
“People have to take responsibility, especially those lucky enough to wear the natiional shirt.”
Before Auradou and Jegou were arrested, France full-back Melvyn Jaminet was dispatched from the tour squad for publishing an offensive video in which he can be heard saying: “The first Arab I meet on the street, I’m going to head butt him.”
The video was shared on social media by La France Insoumise politician Sébastien Delogu.
In a statement posted on X, the French rugby federation (FFR) condemned Jaminet’s comments as unacceptable and contrary to the fundamental values of the sport.
Jaminet apologised for the remarks, but was banned from playing for eight and a half months. RC Toulon, his French Top 14 club, also banned him but stopped short of sacking him.
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