Disappearance of Medhi Narjissi: FFRs appearance before the court is an extremely important moment for the family of the young rugby player

The French Rugby Federation (FFR) has been summoned as part of the judicial investigation into the disappearance at sea of young rugby player Medhi Narjissi in 2024.

Published on: April 23, 2026 23:28 Reading time: 1 min

Najil Narjissi pays his respects in front of a portrait of his son Medhi, who disappeared in South Africa. (THIERRY BRETON / MAXPPP)

“It’s an extremely important moment for us,” said Edouard Martial, one of the lawyers for Medhi Narjissi’s family, the young rugby player who went missing at sea in South Africa almost two years ago. On Friday, the French Rugby Federation (FFR) will appear before the court in Agen.

This summons is part of the judicial investigation initially opened for “disturbing disappearance”, now reclassified as “involuntary homicide”. FFR President, Florian Grill, will attend the summons, which could result in an indictment or the status of an assisting witness. Currently, two individuals are indicted for involuntary homicide: Robin Ladauge, a physical trainer for the team staff, and Stéphane Cambos, former U18 team manager.

On the other hand, Medhi Narjissi’s family accuses FFR of negligence. According to Edouard Martial, “the mistakes made by the French Rugby Federation are too serious and warrant an indictment.” He claims that “this trip was organized haphazardly” and that “Florian Grill must explain himself. He must describe the shortcomings of the federation.”

Medhi Narjissi, a young player for Stade Toulousain at the age of 17, was swept away by the ocean on August 7, 2024, during a training camp for the French Under-18 team in South Africa. The disappearance occurred during a recovery session organized by the coaching staff, on a dangerous beach near the Cape of Good Hope. His body has not been found.