The supposed thuggish attack on French rugby player Mathieu Bastareaud on a Wellington street caused widespread consternation in this country. From the Prime Minister down, there was concern about how this tarnished New Zealand's standing, especially in the eyes of those contemplating coming here for the 2011 Rugby World Cup.
Now, almost a week after the attack claim, and following an invitation from the New Zealand police to "reconsider" his position, Bastareaud has admitted he fabricated the story.
The Frenchman wants the episode to be dismissed as a youthful indiscretion sparked by liquor. He says now that he panicked after hitting his head on a table in his hotel room, scarring his cheekbone. Regrettably, that story does not seem to stack up, either. Police investigations, aided by CCTV footage, suggest Bastareaud returned to the hotel with two other French players and two women. It was 25 minutes before he went to his room. It appears more than likely his injuries were sustained during that period.
It is likely other French players and the team management knew how he was hurt. Yet they chose to go along with his story, raising eyebrows by making no complaint to the police, and quickly put him on a plane to Paris.
The bottom line in all of this is that some of the damage caused by Bastareaud's false claim is irreparable. Apologies never carry quite the same weight as accusations. Indeed, the Frenchman's admission may never be noticed by some of those appalled by his tale of being attacked from behind by five men. The least Bastareaud and French rugby authorities can do now is tell the full story. New Zealand's reputation was on the line. Now it is that of the French game.
