France lock Bastien Chalureau has denied accusations he’s racist throughout an emotional press convention following his controversial call-up for the Rugby World Cup.
The 31-year-old Montpellier participant is interesting towards a suspended six-month jail sentence for a racially-motivated assault in 2020.
Chalureau, who has six Test caps, was added to Les Bleus’ 33-man squad by head coach Fabien Galthie following the damage withdrawal of Paul Willemse.
“I am not a racist, I do not have those values,” he instructed a press convention on Monday. “What I want to say to you is that I confessed to my mistakes, that I paid my debts and I deny all claims about racist remarks.”
While visiting the squad on Monday, French President Emmanuel Macron was recorded telling head coach Galthie: “We don’t want the controversy getting out of hand.”
Chalureau, who at instances was tearful throughout his press convention, mentioned France’s teaching employees and administration have been absolutely conscious of the assault, which led to him leaving former membership Toulouse.
“We discussed the matter with the French team staff,” he mentioned. “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 team-mates, my family as it does not just affect me. I am not a racist, I bring people together. The beauty of rugby is it brings together people from all communities.”
Chalureau made his worldwide debut in November as a late substitute in a 30-26 win over reigning world champions South Africa in Marseille.
Former nationwide staff captain Thierry Dusautoir, a pal of one of many victims of the assault, mentioned he has by no means supported the second-row ahead enjoying for France.
“I’ve always had a problem with him being in the French national team,” Dusautoir instructed Canal Plus. “I’m aware that I’m not objective in this.”
France start their residence World Cup on Friday night by internet hosting New Zealand in Paris.
