Wilfrid Hounkpatin returned to the stands of the Pierre-Fabre stadium in Castres on Sunday evening to watch his team's victory against RC Toulon (25-17) at the end of the 15th day of the French rugby championship.
A discreet return, only broadcast on his personal social networks, for the 32-year-old right pillar, prosecuted for domestic violence, under judicial supervision and who had been dismissed by Castres Olympique on January 10 while awaiting the judgment scheduled for January 3 April before the criminal court of the Tarn prefecture.
More than a month after this layoff which prohibited Wilfrid Hounkpatin “from appearing at his workplace”, it therefore ended.
The French international (1 selection) is even back in training this week and could therefore apply for a return to the field on Saturday for the reception of Union Bordeaux-Bègles.
“The CO does not intend to replace justice”
Via a press release, the club tells us: “After his dismissal on January 10 and a financial sanction, the player has effectively resumed his professional activity.
The CO will always strongly condemn any action by one of the players/employees that undermines the integrity of women, but it does not intend to replace the justice system which will rule in this private matter.
".
When contacted, the management of Castres Olympique did not wish to provide further details regarding the sporting situation of Wilfrid Hounkpatin.
On January 8, according to information from Rugbyrama, an argument broke out between Wilfrid Hounkpatin and his partner.
A few hours later, the latter filed a complaint for violence against a spouse and the player was presented on January 10 to the Castres prosecutor's office to be notified of the date of the judgment, April 3.
Placed under judicial supervision, he is prohibited from having contact with his partner and from going to the marital home.
The club then reacted via a first press release: “Castres Olympique has taken note of the legal proceedings carried out by the Castres public prosecutor against Wilfrid Hounkpatin.
The latter is being prosecuted for domestic violence.
Such actions would be in total contradiction with the values advocated by Castres Olympique.”
Wilfrid Hounkpatin (1.92 m, 132 kg) has been playing at Castres Olympique since 2018 after stints in Montpellier or Rouen.
The right pillar has played 12 matches this season for 8 starts on the front line.