“Tu veux me frapper ?” Journalist Assaulted During Live Rugby Broadcast in France

Aurillac, France – A disturbing incident unfolded following a Pro D2 rugby match between Aurillac and Biarritz Olympique on Friday, March 27, 2026, as a radio journalist was attacked by supporters while broadcasting live. The incident, which occurred at the Stade Jean-Alric, has prompted swift condemnation from the Ligue Nationale de Rugby (LNR) and an investigation into the events.

Thomas Palmier, the commentator for Ici Pays basque, was reporting on Biarritz’s 27-24 victory when he was confronted by a group of Aurillac supporters. As Palmier announced the final score, he was immediately accosted, leading to a tense and frightening exchange broadcast live on the radio station. “Tu veux me frapper ? Tu veux me frapper?” Palmier repeatedly asked his aggressor, according to reports from Rugbyrama.

The situation quickly escalated, with Palmier attempting to defend himself while continuing to broadcast. “Mais arrêtez, mais arrêtez! Assieds-toi, laisse-moi bosser sans déconner,” he pleaded, urging the supporters to stop. “Biarritz qui s’impose, même si personne ne le veut ici. Rentrez chez vous à me frapper comme ça, rentrez tous chez vous,” he continued, visibly shaken as the assault continued. His colleague in the studio intervened, calling for a pause in the broadcast to allow tensions to subside.

A Pattern of Harassment

According to Stéphane Garcia, another journalist with Ici Pays basque, the attack wasn’t an isolated incident. Garcia detailed on X (formerly Twitter) that Palmier had been subjected to harassment throughout the second half of the match, including being “chambré/poussé plusieurs fois ou subissant des nuquettes pour faire sauter son casque” – taunted, pushed, and having objects thrown at his head in an attempt to dislodge his headset. This suggests a sustained period of intimidation leading up to the physical assault.

Et j’ajoute, puisque certains ne s’en tiennent qu’à ces deux courts extraits, que ce ne sont que la conséquence d’un journaliste poussé à bout. Qui durant la dernière demi-heure a été empêché de faire son travail correctement en étant chambré/poussé plusieurs fois ou subissant… https://t.co/UpcM4b42Qj

— Stéphaηe Garcia 🎙️ (@StephaneGrcia) March 27, 2026

Official Response and Investigation

The incident has drawn strong condemnation from both the club and the league. Aurillac officials stated they would “faire ce qu’on peut pour identifier les coupables” – do everything possible to identify the perpetrators – and promised a statement from President Christian Millette. The LNR released a statement condemning the “agression” with the “plus grande fermeté” – the greatest firmness – and announced the launch of a formal investigation. The league pledged to take “toutes les mesures nécessaires” – all necessary measures – in conjunction with the club and relevant authorities to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.

The attack raises serious questions about safety and security at sporting events, and the protection of journalists covering them. While passionate fan support is a cornerstone of rugby, the line between enthusiasm and aggression was clearly crossed in Aurillac on Friday night. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential for violence and the need for robust measures to ensure the safety of those involved in the sport, both on and off the field.

Thomas Palmier, notably, is the brother of Marc Palmier, a demi d’ouverture (scrum-half) for FC Grenoble Rugby. This familial connection, while not directly linked to the assault, adds another layer to the story and highlights the close-knit nature of the French rugby community. Grenoble plays in the Pro D2 league as well, and is based in the city of Grenoble, France.

What’s Next

The LNR investigation is expected to gather statements from witnesses, review security footage, and potentially involve law enforcement. The outcome of the investigation could lead to sanctions against the individuals involved, as well as a review of security protocols at Stade Jean-Alric and other Pro D2 venues. President Millette’s promised statement is anticipated to provide further insight into Aurillac’s response and commitment to addressing the issue. The next match for Aurillac is scheduled for April 5th against Montauban, while Biarritz will face Narbonne on the same day.

This incident underscores the importance of respectful conduct at sporting events and the need to protect those who contribute to the coverage of the game. The rugby community, and the wider sporting world, will be watching closely to observe how this situation is resolved and what steps are taken to prevent similar incidents in the future.

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