July 16, (THEWILL) – Two French international rugby players have been charged with aggravated rape in Argentina. 20-year-old Hugo Auradou and 21-year-old Oscar Jegou were arrested on July 8, in Buenos Aires, following a match against Argentina in Mendoza.
The players are accused of raping a 39-year-old woman they met in a bar after the game. While the complainant alleges violent and repeated rape, the accused maintain the encounter was consensual. Their lawyer, Rafael Cuneo Libarona, has come out to say that he is confident in their innocence.
Libarona stated that new evidence, including videos and images, that strengthen the defence case has emerged. He described the situation as “very painful for everyone” and expressed respect for all parties involved. The lawyer is seeking house arrest for the players to protect their physical and mental well-being.
The first witness testimony is scheduled for Tuesday. Libarona assured that the case would proceed regardless of whether the men remain in jail or are placed under house arrest. He emphasised there is no risk of the players fleeing or obstructing the investigation.
The incident has caused concern in France and the rugby community. Libarona acknowledged the worry felt by the players’ families and the broader impact of the case. He pledged to work diligently to prove the innocence of the pair.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
