)
Two French rugby players face a court decision on rape allegations in Argentina amid legal debates, public backlash and sports reforms.
A brother of Argentina's justice minister who is also one of the defense attorneys in the controversial rape case involving two French rugby players has expressed optimism that the charges against his clients will be dismissed.
The case, which has drawn significant attention in both Argentina and France, revolves around allegations of aggravated rape by Hugo Auradou and Oscar Jegou, following a match against the Pumas in Mendoza this past July.
)
12:30 - 27.11.2024
Is this goodbye or just a pause? The Kolisis’ unfinished chapter
Siya and Rachel Kolisi’s separation sparks speculation of reconciliation as fans wonder if their love story is truly over
Here are the five key developments in the case:
1.Defense pushes for charges to be dismissed
The defense team, led by prominent lawyer Mariano Cuneo Libarona, argues that the charges against the 21-year-old French players should be dropped due to lack of evidence.
Libarona, in his statements to Argentine broadcaster Infobae, highlighted the findings of a psychological assessment of the complainant which reportedly revealed inconsistencies and contradictions in her testimony.
“This case should serve as a wake-up call to reflect on false accusations against innocent people,” Libarona said.
His confidence is echoed by co-counsel German Hnatow who believes that the judicial system will vindicate his clients.
2. Prosecutors recommend dropping aggravated rape charges
Last month, prosecutors recommended that the aggravated rape charges, which are used in suspected cases of gang rape, be dropped.
Their decision stemmed from what they described as a weakening of the case against the players.
)
15:47 - 27.11.2024
Explained: Why Tony Omondi will suit up for Shogun rugby instead of Shujaa at Dubai 7s
Tony Omondi will feature at the Dubai 7s despite not being named in the Shujaa squad alongside Co-Captain Vincent Onyala for the tournament amid a contractual standoff with Kenya Rugby Union.
The psychological assessment of the 39-year-old complainant concluded that her version of events was “not plausible” further undermining the prosecution’s stance.
3. The plaintiff’s lawyer demands continued investigation
Despite the setbacks for the prosecution, the complainant’s lawyer, Natacha Romano, has argued vehemently for the investigation to continue.
Romano accused the prosecution of bias and criticized their handling of the case.
She insists that justice for her client requires a deeper examination of the events that transpired on the night of July 6.
“We cannot allow such a serious case to be dismissed without exhausting all avenues of investigation,” Romano stated ahead of the court hearing.
4.Scandals tarnish French rugby’s reputation
This case, coupled with racist remarks made by French full-back Melvyn Jaminet on the same night in July, has overshadowed the French rugby team’s summer tour of Argentina.
)
08:54 - 23.11.2024
'The cutest thing I’ve ever seen'-Ilona Maher reacts to adorable 4-year-old fan’s support on DWTS
The Team USA Rugby Sevens bronze medalist has captured hearts on DWTS inspiring even her youngest fans with her strength.
Jaminet, who was sent home and handed a 34-week suspension, has become emblematic of what French Rugby Federation President Florian Grill described as “a culture of excess.”
In response to the scandals Grill announced sweeping changes to disciplinary measures and vowed to end the tradition of excessive post-match celebrations, referred to as “the fourth and fifth halves.”
5.Public backlash and impact on players’ careers
While Auradou and Jegou have returned to their Top 14 club teams, the controversy continues to affect their reputations.
Auradou, who plays for Pau, faced public backlash when he was whistled off the pitch during his first game back, a narrow 11-10 loss to Perpignan.
The incident highlights the ongoing scrutiny both players face despite the diminishing strength of the case against them.
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)