The verdict on the suspicions of corruption which shake French rugby is known. This Tuesday, the Paris Criminal Court delivered its judgment against the president of the federation Bernard Laporte and the businessman Mohed Altrad, boss of the Montpellier club and jersey sponsor of the Blues. Bernard Laporte was sentenced to two years in prison suspended and 75,000 euros fine, Mohed Altrad to 18 months in prison, also suspended, and 50,000 euros fine.
Prohibited from practicing for two years
The president of the FFR was found guilty of having rendered a series of arbitrations for the benefit of the Altrad group. The court retained facts of corruption concerning four cases: the signing of the contract for the XV of France jersey, the France 2023 partnership, the vote in favor of the takeover of Gloucester and the postponement of the match between Montpellier and Racing 92.
Bernard Laporte was also banned from exercising at the head of the Federation for two years. An important decision, as France will host the World Cup next year. He can appeal this decision which is not suspensive, that is to say he could remain in office until the new verdict.