Bernard Laporte re-elected FFR president

Under-fire French Rugby Federation (FFR) president, Bernard Laporte, has been re-elected and will thus remain in his current position for the next four years.

Laporte took 51% of the vote, in so doing edging out rival Florian Grill for the top spot.

The result occurred against the backdrop of significant controversy as Laporte was recently embroiled in allegations of fraud concerning himself and Montpellier owner Mohed Altra.

“Today, there is a massive disappointment. We did a really good campaign and we stayed loyal to our principles, right till the end,” said Grill.

“Now, I will not hide from you that [I’m] a bit surprised at the result. There is a rule which forbids calling club as of midnight on Tuesday…I ask myself questions, I will look…it’s too early to speak about it.”

Laporte was enthusiastic about supporting the notion of his innocence and was full of praise for the large number of amateur clubs who supported him in the election.

Les clubs de rugby amateur ont élu la liste Bernard Laporte avec 51,47% des voix ! @BernardLaporte_ est donc réélu président de la FFR pour 4 ans. #ÉlectionsFFR pic.twitter.com/CCw98vjHJu

— France Rugby (@FranceRugby) October 3, 2020

“Thank you to all the amateur clubs for confirming their confidence [in me] for the next four years. I will be president for every club. Together for a big World Cup.” he said.