Two French rugby players, Hugo Auradou and Oscar Jegou, face serious allegations after a match in Argentina. Prosecutors in Mendoza have charged the athletes with aggravated rape following an incident involving a 39-year-old woman.
The incident allegedly occurred after France’s victory over Argentina on Sunday. The woman claims the French rugby players raped her multiple times and assaulted her in a hotel room at the Diplomatic Hotel, where the team was staying. According to her lawyer, the victim endured severe violence. She suffered injuries to her face, back, and ribs, along with various bite and scratch marks.
The French rugby players assert that their interactions were consensual. They declined to testify during a hearing and remain in custody while the investigation continues. Their lawyer, German Hnatow, expressed confidence in their innocence. He stated that they are calm but concerned about the situation.
Witnesses reportedly saw the woman leaving the hotel. Additionally, the players’ legal team highlighted that surveillance footage did not show any injuries at that time. Meanwhile, the French Rugby Federation (FFR) president, Florian Gill, commented on the need for a swift investigation by Argentine authorities. He emphasized that the federation does not have the authority to judge the situation.
As the investigation unfolds, Auradou and Jegou have been replaced in the squad by Mickael Guillard and Judicael Cancoriet for the upcoming match against Argentina in Buenos Aires. This case highlights the serious implications surrounding the actions of French rugby players and the importance of a thorough legal process.
