France has suspended full-back Melvyn Jaminet after he posted a video on social media containing a racist comment. Jaminet, who plays for Toulon, came off the bench in his national team’s victory over Argentina on Saturday.
Despite deleting the video from his Instagram account, it has continued to circulate on social media. As a result, Jaminet has been sent home from the tour, and the French Rugby Federation (FFR) has condemned the 25-year-old’s remarks, stating, “Such comments are totally unacceptable and are contrary to the fundamental values of our sport.”
The FFR added, “Melvyn Jaminet has been removed from and has left the France squad currently in Argentina. An internal investigation is ongoing to shine a light on these comments, which are of extreme seriousness, and we will take appropriate measures.”
Jaminet was substituted in after 72 minutes against Argentina and scored a penalty in the 28-13 win. Toulon also condemned Jaminet’s comments, stating they “distance themselves from them” and have launched their own internal investigation.
Jaminet has expressed remorse, saying he is “deeply sorry and ashamed of my comments.” In an Instagram post, he added, “Racism, in all its forms, is unacceptable and goes against everything I believe in. I understand the FFR’s punishment and remain at their disposal to help clarify this incident.”
Credit: BBC Sport
