Rugby fan 'kidnapped and gang-raped by three men' after watching World Cup match

11 September 2023 , 13:15

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The Ireland rugby fan was attacked while in Bordeaux (Image: Getty Images)

A female rugby fan was gang-raped by three men after she watched a World Cup match in France, it has been reported.

The woman, 37, was supporting Ireland as they faced off in a world cup title bout in Bordeaux. She was taken to Bordeaux University Hospil as police continue their hunt for the three rapists.

The rape is thought to have happened around midnight on Rue de la Rousselle in central Bordeaux, not far from the woman's accommodation.

Residents raised the alarm after she said she was dragged into an alleyway and then attacked. The three attackers fled from the scene, leaving the traumatised woman lying on the ground. Irish officers - who were already in the city - were called to assist.

According to French daily Le Parisien, the men drove her in a car, but they didn't leave the area. The woman is said to have sought refuge in her apartment after the horror attack, and was initially unable to recount her traumatic experience. Irish officers were asked to escort her to Bordeaux hospital and collect her statement.

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The attackers have been described as Caucasian. One is said to be "very athletic". An investigation into the alleged rape has been opened.

"The investigations are underway and in particular the genetic examinations on the victim and the clothing, the collection of testimonies and the study of the video protection of the neighborhood," police told Le Parisien in a statement.

The attack happened on Saturday after Romania faced off against Ireland - who are second favourites to win after host team France.

Ryan Fahey