French Rugby Federation Implements Alcohol Ban for National Team Gatherings

The French Rugby Federation (FFR) has prohibited players from consuming alcohol during national team assemblies, a measure introduced to improve off-field discipline. This decision follows incidents, including one in July when France full-back Melvyn Jaminet received a 34-week suspension and a 30,000 euros (£25,335) fine from the FFR. This penalty was imposed after he shared a racist video on social media during the summer tour of Argentina. During the same tour, teammates Hugo Auradou and Oscar Jegou, both aged 21, were also charged with the aggravated rape of a 39-year-old woman, allegations which both individuals deny. FFR vice president Jean-Marc Lhermet informed reporters, stating, “These are places where the players are there to try and develop their physical and tactical abilities to the best of their ability.” He further added, “The consumption of alcohol is not authorised in these places.” Among the 20 other measures unveiled by the FFR is a proposal to implement drug and alcohol testing, alongside a rule prohibiting overnight visitors in players’ rooms. France head coach Fabien Galthie indicated that the players supported the new regulations. He elaborated, stating, “We did a questionnaire and all the players said yes.” Galthie concluded, “It was a logical and coherent development in relation to what had happened.” France is scheduled to compete against Japan, New Zealand, and Argentina in their autumn internationals next month.