Following Mohed Altrad’s conviction, the New Zealand Federation will soon meet to discuss the sponsorship contract with the French businessman’s company.
The verdict in the Bernard Laporte – Mohed Altrad case could well have repercussions even in the southern hemisphere. Indeed, since 2022, the logo of the French construction group, named after the French businessman, has been present on the various jerseys of the New Zealand national teams, male or female, as well as rugby 15. or 7. A contract formalized in August 2021 and estimated at 120 million dollars (113 million euros) over six years, according to the local press. However, following the conviction on Tuesday of Altrad in the case linking him to the current president of the French Rugby Federation (FFR), the New Zealand Federation has since reacted to this. Indeed, while the president of Montpellier received an 18-month suspended prison sentence, a fine of 50,000 euros and an additional penalty of ineligibility, the consequences could be much heavier for him. ” We will immediately summon representatives of the company (Altrad) as well as all of our key partners reads a statement released by the NZRU.
The Western Force will also investigate the issue.
« We have been discussing this possible (legal) outcome for some time. “, also specifies the latter. Also linked to the Altrad group, the Australian team Western Force also mentioned the case of the French billionaire, convicted of active corruption, influence peddling, abuse of corporate assets. “La Force is in talks with the Altrad group and the main stakeholders of the club following the verdict of a French court overnight, explained the formation based in Perth, via a press release. The Force takes this matter very seriously and will seek further information from the company. The club will consider their sponsorship with Altrad accordingly. It remains to be seen how this affair will end for the native of Racca (Syria) who could therefore lose very, very big following his conviction, just like Laporte, who has already chosen to take a step back from his position within of World Rugby.
