Montpellier Hérault Rugby (MHR) has narrowly secured its retention in the Top 14 after a dramatic 18-20 victory against Grenoble, the Pro D2 finalist, at the Stade des Alpes. This victory concludes a tumultuous season for MHR, marked by a drop in performance since their historic French champion title two years ago.
In response to this precarious situation, MHR's president Mohed Altrad has announced substantial changes to the club's staff. Bernard Laporte, who had taken charge in an emergency capacity, has seen his hastily assembled team disbanded. Notable exits include Patrice Collazo, Vincent Etcheto, and Christian Labit. The management shake-up sees three former local players stepping into key roles: ex-hooker Joan Caudullo, former scrum-half Benoît Paillaugue, and recently retired international center Geoffrey Doumayrou.
Joan Caudullo, who has experience managing the training center at Mont-de-Marsan and Montpellier, takes a leading role in managing the forwards. Benoît Paillaugue, a recent retiree and former champion of France, leverages his deep connection with the club to move from coaching Espoirs to the main team. Geoffrey Doumayrou adds to the mix with his international experience, heightening expectations for a revived MHR.
Despite their solid club ties, this trio lacks high-level coaching experience, making their appointments a significant gamble by Altrad. These changes replace previously seasoned coaches like Fabien Galthié, Jake White, Vern Cotter, and Philippe Saint-André, who have had notable success guiding MHR to multiple finals and a Top 14 victory in 2022.
Adding to the off-field drama, MHR anticipates another turbulent chapter. President Altrad's recent recruitment efforts have included notable players like English third-row Billy Vunipola and Congolese winger Madosh Tambwe. Even a potential signing of retired Scottish fullback Stuart Hogg is on the cards. The controversial return of convicted player Mohamed Haouas also features prominently.
The rebuilding phase coincides with looming legal battles for both Altrad and Laporte, who face an appeal trial in 2025 for charges including active corruption, influence peddling, and abuse of corporate assets. These ongoing issues underscore the club's challenging road ahead, both on and off the field.
- Following their narrow escape from relegation, Montpellier Hérault Rugby has wasted no time in overhauling its coaching staff. President Mohed Altrad announced these changes to a gathering of several hundred supporters at Vic-la-Gardiole, close to the GGL Stadium.
- The internal restructuring sees Benoît Paillaugue and Joan Caudullo stepping up, reflecting a strategy to leverage local club loyalty and familiarity. These changes come amidst a turbulent backdrop for MHR, marked by fluctuating performances and significant off-field controversies.
- Bernard Laporte's shift from sports director to deputy president signals a strategic move within the club's hierarchy. At the same time, the coaching staff remains diversified with Antoine Battut, Didier Dés, Benson Stanley, and Jérémy Valls retaining their positions.
