French lock Bastien Chalureau denies accusations of racism

France lock Bastien Chalureau has denied accusations of being a racist following his call-up to the Rugby World Cup squad.

The 31-year-old was an addition to the squad by head coach Fabien Galthie following an injury to lock Paul Willemse. He has won six caps for France since his conviction for which he was handed a six-month suspended prison sentence in 2020 after being found guilty of "acts of violence committed because of the victim's race or ethnicity".

Chalureau, who plays for Montpellier denied making any racist comment with his selection in the World Cup squad by Galthie received backing from French President Emmanuel Macron and French Rugby Federation.

"This story has been around for years and I totally deny the allegations of racism," Chalureau told reporters.

"Since the first day I've admitted my mistakes but denied racism allegations. I am not a racist. I wanted to come and say it out loud here today, because it is something that affects also my team and my family," he added with tears in his eyes."

Chalureau also added that the team management was aware of the incident from the start.

“We discussed the matter with the French team staff: They knew from the start, it is an old case and known by a lot of people.

“I wanted to come out in public and address all my teammates, my family, as it does not just affect me, it affects my family.

“That is why I wanted to appear before you today [Monday], to clarify the situation.

“I am not a racist, I bring people together. The beauty of rugby is it brings together people from all communities"

French Rugby Federation President Florian Grill added that the "law will run its course" and came in support of the coach decision to pick Chalureau.

“He recognised the violent acts, but still denies the racist remarks", said Grill.

“He’s appealed the decision and we have to allow the law to run its course, that’s our position,” he added.