Top 14: “I believe in redemption”, Bernard Laporte looks back on the recruitment of Stuart Hogg, Wilfrid Hounkpatin and Mohamed Haouas at MHR

Bernard Laporte lors d’un entraînement du MHR en début de saison. Midi Libre – SYLVIE CAMBON

Montpellier's director of rugby has returned to the criticisms concerning the recruitment of the three players, each involved in cases of domestic violence. He explains why.

Each involved in cases of domestic violence, Mohamed Haouas, Wilfrid Hounkpatin and Stuart Hogg have all signed with the MHR this season. A recruitment that has raised lively controversy within the world of rugby.

Mohamed Haouas, sentenced to one year in prison, convertible in May 2023, and Wilfrid Hounkpatin, sentenced to 12 months suspended for similar acts, were therefore tried and served their sentences. Scotsman Stuart Hogg, who came out of retirement to join the MHR, is due to appear in court in Scotland on 10 September to answer charges of violence against his former partner.

"Can we punish you for life ?"

"I understand the criticism. But I say is it final when you have made a mistake ? Can we punish you for life ? I believe in redemption. Fortunately it exists otherwise it would be terrible", defends the MHR rugby director Bernard Laporte who spoke with the three players.

"When I meet them, when I live with them, they are three great guys. I do not agree with what they did. Like everyone else, also assures Bernard Laporte. These are people who have regretted it. Honestly, I think it's good that the president agrees to give them another chance. I think it's human. But there's no room for error. We know that.”

Montpellier will host Lyon on Saturday, September 7 (4:30 p.m.), for the first day of the Top 14.