The former head of French rugby, Bernard Laporte, was under investigation for aggravated tax fraud laundering but the case was dropped due to lack of evidence. Laporte, along with former rugby players Jean-Pierre Rives and Denis Charvet, had been placed in custody in January 2023. The investigation was initiated in September 2020 following a report from Tracfin, the anti-money laundering unit of the finance ministry. The focus of the investigation was on Rives’ entry into the capital of a company operating a casino in Haute-Savoie, alongside Laporte and Charvet.
Concerns arose regarding a 3 million euro donation that allowed Rives to become a shareholder in the company, with suspicions that the donation had not been properly declared to tax authorities. However, Rives made a donation declaration for the full amount and paid the corresponding taxes less than two months after his custody. The National Financial Prosecutor’s Office confirmed that in cases of donation, tax is only due upon declaration to the tax administration, with no time limit, thus no offense was established in this instance. Bernard Laporte’s lawyer welcomed the closure of the investigation and emphasized the importance of respecting the secrecy of the investigation.
During the investigation, Laporte’s involvement in the governance of the French Rugby Federation was highlighted, as his support for a particular candidate was part of a larger referendum taking place within the organization. Laporte had previously been involved in another case of corruption with businessman Mohed Altrad, resulting in suspended prison sentences in late 2022 related to the sponsorship of the French national team’s jersey. Both Laporte and Altrad have appealed the ruling. These legal issues have raised uncertainties about the future of the French Rugby Federation and its leadership.
The investigation into Laporte, Rives, and Charvet for aggravated tax fraud laundering was officially closed due to lack of evidence, as Rives had correctly declared the 3 million euro donation and paid the corresponding taxes. Laporte’s lawyer welcomed the decision to drop the case and stressed the importance of maintaining the secrecy of investigations to prevent unwarranted media attention. Laporte’s involvement in governance within the French Rugby Federation was also highlighted during this time, as his support for a candidate during a referendum sparked controversy.
In a separate legal case, Laporte and businessman Mohed Altrad were convicted in late 2022 for corruption related to the sponsorship of the French national team’s jersey. Both men received suspended prison sentences and have appealed the ruling. These legal issues have created uncertainties about the future leadership of the French Rugby Federation and have raised questions about governance within the organization. Despite the legal challenges, Laporte’s lawyer expressed satisfaction with the closure of the investigation and reiterated the importance of upholding the integrity of legal proceedings. The outcome of these cases may have a significant impact on the future direction of French rugby and its governing body.
