Cocaine ‘popular’ in French rugby

Toulon president Mourad Boudjellal has conceded that the use of cocaine is not uncommon in the French Top 14.

Boudjellal's claim comes after the arrest of Toulon star James O'Connor and one of the club's former players Ali Williams, who were busted while doing an alleged drug deal outside a nightclub in Paris.

'It's only my opinion, but I have the impression that in certain clubs and among many players, coke is very popular,' said the outspoken millionaire. 'We've had the alcohol stage, now we're at another one. We can't support that. That needs to stop.'

ALSO READ: Racing sack Williams amid drugs claim

Boudjellal confirmed that O'Connor will be sanctioned for his latest indiscretion and the player will not be offered a contract extension at the club.

'He won't escape a suspension. He's a kid with troubles, he's 26. I'm neither there to destroy him nor support him. It's complicated and tough to defend him.

'We'll try to manage this season, but we're not at a stage where we'll extend his contract. For James, I blame it more on distress than stupidity because I know he has things to sort out, but cocaine will not do that for him.'

ALSO READ: Arrested duo spent 40 hours in cells

Photo: Lionel Bonaventure/AFP Photo

Post by