French Rugby Team Faces Multiple Scandals During South American Tour
The French rugby team, currently on a tour in South America, is embroiled in multiple controversies. The team played their first match against the Argentine selection in Mendoza, winning 28-13. However, their victory was overshadowed by serious allegations and incidents involving the players.
Alleged Sexual Abuse Incident
Two players from the French national team have been accused of sexual abuse by a young woman from Mendoza. The alleged incident took place in the early hours of Sunday at the Diplomatic Hotel, where the team was staying. The complainant reported meeting the players at a bowling alley, where they celebrated their victory, and later accompanied them to the hotel. She accused the players of abusing her in their room. The Sexual Crimes Prosecutor of Mendoza, Darío Nora, has ordered the arrest of the athletes, who are currently in Buenos Aires. They will be charged with sexual abuse involving carnal access and the participation of two or more people. A judicial and police commission from Mendoza will travel to Buenos Aires to transport them and formally notify them of the accusation.
Racist Remarks by Melvyn Jaminet
In a separate incident, French rugby player Melvyn Jaminet has been removed from the team following the release of a controversial video on social media. In the video, Jaminet made racist remarks, stating, 'I swear to you, the first Arab I meet on the road I'll hit him with his helmet.' The video, which was posted on Instagram and later deleted, has sparked widespread criticism. The French Rugby Federation (FFR) condemned Jaminet's comments as 'totally unacceptable and contrary to the fundamental values of our sport.' Jaminet has since apologized, expressing his shame and regret over his words. The FFR has launched an internal investigation to determine appropriate measures.
These incidents have cast a shadow over the French rugby team's tour, raising concerns about the behavior and values upheld by the players. The team is scheduled to play their next match against the Uruguayan selection in Montevideo on Wednesday and will return to Buenos Aires to face Argentina again on Saturday.
- The French Rugby Federation's president, Florian Grill, and vice-president, Jean-Marc Lhermet, were en route to Argentina and expected to arrive late Monday night. The FFR has emphasized its commitment to diversity, inclusion, and secularism, stating that any discriminatory behavior has no place in French rugby.
- The Minister of Sports, Amélie Oudéa-Castéra, praised the swift actions taken by the FFR and the player's club, Toulon, which also condemned Jaminet's comments and announced its own internal investigation.
- The French rugby team must now navigate these controversies while continuing their tour in South America. The team's management and the FFR are under pressure to address these issues promptly and effectively to restore the team's reputation and uphold the sport's values.
