French rugby player Maxime Lucu has found himself at the centre of a social media storm after a post-match video appeared to show him ignoring several Springbok players during the traditional handshake exchange following France’s 21-19 victory over South Africa in Paris.
The incident, which quickly went viral, sparked heated debate among rugby supporters, with some questioning Lucu’s sportsmanship and others suggesting that his actions may have been racially motivated.
However, South African rugby player Madosh Tambwe has stepped forward to defend the French scrum-half, insisting that the incident should not be misinterpreted.
Viral Video Sparks Backlash
The controversy erupted after footage shared by the Springboks showed French players exchanging post-match greetings with their South African counterparts.
In the clip, Lucu appeared to warmly embrace Springbok flyhalf Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu before seemingly failing to acknowledge Ox Nche, who appeared visibly surprised by the interaction.
Lucu also appeared to overlook Pieter-Steph du Toit and Manie Libbok during the post-match handshake procession.
The footage attracted widespread attention, particularly because Lucu had earlier received a yellow card for a high tackle on Feinberg-Mngomezulu during the match.
With emotions already running high following South Africa’s narrow defeat, the footage quickly became a talking point among rugby fans.
Madosh Tambwe Rejects Racism Claims
Amid the growing criticism, Tambwe took to X to defend Lucu, drawing on his experience of having played alongside the French international at Bordeaux Bègles.
Tambwe urged supporters to avoid drawing conclusions about Lucu’s character based on a short video clip.
He wrote:
“Avoid misrepresenting the situation. I have played alongside both men; Max Lucu is not a racist. We share disappointment over yesterday’s Springbok defeat. Yet using this fragment to advance a narrative is something the sport does not require.”
Tambwe’s intervention has added another perspective to the debate, with the former teammate arguing that the incident should not be used to promote accusations without sufficient context.
Lucu’s Previous Controversy Resurfaces
The latest incident has also brought renewed attention to Lucu’s previous involvement in a separate controversy involving French international teammate Bastien Chalureau.
In 2023, Lucu publicly defended Chalureau after the latter faced allegations of a racially motivated assault involving two North African rugby players.
Although the two incidents are separate, Lucu’s previous comments have resurfaced as social media users debate the latest controversy.
For now, the handshake footage continues to generate discussion, highlighting how moments captured during emotionally charged sporting encounters can quickly develop into much bigger conversations about respect, sportsmanship and racism in rugby.
