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Sebastien Chabal responds to scalping accusations
By Ian Cameron
Former France No.8 Sebastien Chabal has denied any involvement in ticket scalping ahead of the 2023 Rugby World Cup in France.
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There were reports in the French press this week that Chabal was using his access to tickets as an ambassador for the Rugby World Cup to resell them for a personal profit – a charge he now has dismissed.
The Parisian reported this week that Chabal was under investigation after he allegedly had access to more than his allotted number of tickets as a member of the organising committee and that the former Sale Shark was effectively touting tickets.
The French icon has clarified that he had no intention of making a profit on the tickets.
“Yes, I had privileged access to buy more tickets than can be done by one person, because of my status as ambassador of France 2023,” he explained in his statement. “I didn’t get any freebies or preferential rates. And no, I do not intend to make a profit on these places.
“It is obvious that these places cannot be resold by those who will benefit from them. It is just as inconceivable that they can be used for commercial operations.”
According to the report, evidence of the number of tickets received by Chabal came to light following a raid last year. These searches were held as part of the investigation opened by the National Financial Prosecutor’s Office (PNF) targeting acts of favouritism, influence peddling and corruption.
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Chabal began his career with Bourgoin before moving on to play for Sale Sharks, Racing 92, and Lyon. He was a key player for the French national team and was part of the squad that won the Six Nations Championship in 2007.
The 6’3, 110kg Chabal was known for his physical style of play and his powerful tackles. He was nicknamed “The Caveman” due to his rugged appearance and was a fan favourite throughout his career. Chabal retired from professional rugby in 2013 and has since become a television commentator and coach.
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Who are Namani Nadolo, Mahe Vailau, Charlie Gambel and Adam Ashley-Coper? Does anyone proofread and edit this stuff? Dire.
Go to commentsSo ... my feeling on this is that this absulutely be manipulated by the ball carrier to ensure the penalty or card. Having competed and coached in karate for many years.. there is a ruling called "mabobi" it is where the attacking player endangers him/herself by leading with the head or face, with little or no regard for their own safety. I believe that this can easily and effectively be utilised in rugby... If the TMO can show that the attacking player lowered their position so as to lead with the head and to make the tackle almost impossible, he/she should be penalised for deliberately endangering themselves and the defending team be awarded a penalty. This will also avoid a lot of potential issues with the new proposed tackle law as well.
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