The trial for the March 2022 killing of former Argentina rugby player Federico Aramburú opened in Paris, placing two far-right activists and an accomplice before an assize court for a daylight shooting on Boulevard Saint-Germain.
The Trial and Charges in Paris
According to judicial authorities, the main defendants standing trial are Loïk Le Priol and Romain Bouvier, both former members of the now-dissolved ultra-right student group Groupe Union Défense (GUD). Le Priol, a former French navy commando, faces charges of murder for allegedly firing the shots that killed Aramburú on the pavement. Bouvier is charged with complicity in murder and attempted murder. A third defendant, Le Priol’s partner at the time, is also being tried for accessory to the crime. The proceedings focus not only on Aramburú’s death but also on the attempted murder of his friend and business partner, Shaun Hegarty, a former New Zealand rugby player who was with him at the time of the altercation.
The case drew widespread condemnation across France and Argentina, bringing renewed scrutiny to the monitoring of individuals radicalized by extremist political movements.
Legacy and Memorial Association Hego Pampa
In the wake of the killing, friends and former teammates mobilized to preserve Aramburú’s memory and support his family. Pierre Guerin, a close friend and business partner of Aramburú in Biarritz, founded the association Hego Pampa to maintain cultural and sporting links between the Basque Country and Argentina—ties that Aramburú championed during his life. “Hego Pampa means the south of France and Pampa for Argentina,” Guerin stated regarding the initiative. The association has raised funds by selling scarves and t-shirts bearing the number 13, the jersey number Aramburú wore as a center for Los Pumas and French clubs.
Local artists and community members in Biarritz also created a mural honoring Aramburú, featuring symbols of his career with Biarritz Olympique, CASI in San Isidro, and the Argentine national team. Supporters plan to travel to Paris to attend the court proceedings and demonstrate solidarity with Aramburú’s wife, María, and their three children.
Frequently Asked Questions
- When did the trial begin? The trial opened on Monday, September 7, at the Paris Assize Court.
- Who are the main defendants? Loïk Le Priol and Romain Bouvier are on trial for murder and attempted murder charges related to the shooting.
- What was Federico Aramburú’s rugby career? Aramburú played as a center, earning 22 international caps for Argentina’s Los Pumas and playing professionally in France for clubs including Biarritz Olympique and Perpignan.
- How is Hego Pampa supporting the family? Hego Pampa sells commemorative merchandise, organizes rugby exchanges, and coordinates travel and presence for supporters attending the Paris trial to back Aramburú’s family and surviving friend, Shaun Hegarty.