1
Agustin Pichot claims he was betrayed in World Rugby chairman vote
By Online Editors
Defeated World Rugby chairman candidate Agustin Pichot has claimed he was betrayed by Rugby Africa president Khaled Babbou in a move that cost him top spot in the game's governing body.
The former Argentina captain lost to incumbent chairman Sir Bill Beaumont last month in a tightly-contested 28-23 vote count.
Speaking on Argentine television, Pichot lambasted Babbou for switching allegiances at the eleventh hour as he hinted at shady dealings being the motive behind the late crossover.
"That betrayal occurred in the last days," the 45-year-old told TNT Sports.
"You are going to know why I was betrayed, favours are being made on the edge of ethics. On our side you will not find any type of negotiation. It was done that way and for that reason we lost. I would not have done it in any other way.
"We were 23-23 with 24 hours to go. Africa did what it did and we lost."
It is widely speculated that Rugby Africa wasn't the only organisation to have thrown their lot in with Beaumont despite initially backing Pichot, as Samoa allegedly also switched their vote, according to a report from the Daily Telegraph.
Pichot, who served under Beaumont as World Rugby vice-chairman over the past four years, has since resigned from his position on the World Rugby Council.
The former 71-test star was considered a far more progressive candidate for the chairman role as he advocated for the enhancement of developing rugby nations and inception of a "global game".
"The only reason I have been a part of World Rugby to this day, and which in turn is the same one that has moved me to run for president, is the conviction that World Rugby needs change," he said at the time of his resignation earlier this month.
"But my proposal, which I fervently believe in, has not been chosen, and that is why I choose to step aside.
"I cannot conceive of occupying a place just for the sake of occupying it."
Pichot was succeeded as World Rugby vice-chairman by Beaumont's running mate and ex-France head coach Bernard Laporte.
Trending on RugbyPass
2
‘Not a huge surprise’: Michael Hooper on All Blacks’ win over Ireland
3
France suffer double injury blow ahead of All Blacks clash
4
Munster confirm the signing of an Irish rugby legend's son
5
Latest Comments
BB should be back and he should play the 80,Dmac reminds me of the story about the emperor having no clothes on how he got player of the day ahead of Jordan or J Barrett must be for not losing or maybe coal kicking 🤔
Go to commentsThe English biggest problem is that whole board. They need to change it, because all they've shown is how incapable they are of running a business which ultimately it is.
The players they choose for the team isn't even the best players in England. There is better players out there just as you suggested and I've said in one of my responses.
This was a well written no nonsense article. An eye opener. Let's hope they read your articles. There is a lot they can learn from someone like you. Just don't dare leave my Bulls as a coach. 2 URC Finals and no cigar. You'd better give those boys gas when they screw up. We want that URC title this year👍
Go to comments