XV of France's Tumultuous Tour in Argentina
The XV of France concluded their challenging South American tour with a loss against Argentina, 25-33, in Buenos Aires. The match at José-Amalfitani stadium, attended by 31,950 spectators, was overshadowed by off-field controversies involving French players. The team's preparation was marred by the Jegou-Auradou and Jaminet affairs, which deeply impacted the squad's morale.
Legal Troubles and Team Morale
On Friday, French internationals Oscar Jegou and Hugo Auradou were indicted for 'aggravated rape by the participation of two people' against a 39-year-old Argentine woman. The incident allegedly took place in a hotel in Mendoza, following France's 28-13 victory over the Pumas. The charges carry potential prison sentences of eight to twenty years. Additionally, Melvyn Jaminet was sidelined after a video surfaced showing him making racist remarks.
Despite these setbacks, the French team decided to continue their tour. 'We had to do with it, we had to do it together, we had to do it for the matches, for the group, for the delegation,' said coach Fabien Galthié. The squad's focus was divided, and a 'cataclysm' and 'trauma' were terms used to describe the atmosphere within the team. Scrum-half Baptiste Serin and young player Théo Attisogbé echoed similar sentiments, highlighting the emotional toll the events had taken.
Future Implications and Legal Proceedings
The legal proceedings against Jegou and Auradou are expected to be lengthy. Both players are currently in pre-trial detention in Mendoza. Their lawyers have requested release under judicial supervision, but as of now, the players have not testified. The French Rugby Federation (FFR) is committed to cooperating with Argentine justice. 'There will be a before and an after,' said Florian Grill, president of the FFR, indicating the lasting impact of this tour on French rugby.
As the French delegation leaves Argentina, the team and its supporters are left to reflect on a tour that will be remembered more for its controversies than its on-field performances.
