Two French rugby players have been arrested in Argentina following allegations of sexual assault during their tour of South America, French Rugby Federation (FFR) President Florian Grill announced on Monday.
The French national team had recently secured a 28-13 victory over Argentina in Mendoza and is scheduled to play Uruguay in Montevideo on Wednesday, followed by another test match against Argentina in Buenos Aires on Saturday.
“There is an ongoing investigation. Jean-Marc [Lhermet, FFR vice-president] and I have just flown in from Paris. If the facts are confirmed, they are severe,” Grill stated during a press conference in Argentina. “Our thoughts must already be with the young woman. If, once again, this is true, it goes against everything that rugby does, builds, and is, everything that the 2,000 amateur clubs who bring amateur rugby to life daily do.”
Grill emphasized the gravity of the situation but noted that he lacked detailed information. “I can’t say what happened. An investigation is underway… They’re in a police station. Someone from the delegation went to see them to bring them some food. We’re going to try to go back and see them, too,” he added.
The incident casts a shadow over the French rugby tour, with the team’s management and supporters awaiting further developments from the ongoing investigation.
