Racing 92’s Fijian winger Vinaya Habosi has been mandated to attend a domestic violence awareness course following his recent arrest, according to a public prosecutor’s office near Paris.
Habosi was taken into custody on Sunday and released the following day after police responded to a dispute at his residence, which involved his wife and their infant child. Witnesses reported that the 24-year-old Habosi physically assaulted his wife, a claim that was corroborated by the victim during police questioning.
At the time of the incident, Habosi reportedly exhibited signs of intoxication, as indicated by police sources. The public prosecutors in Nanterre stated that he is required to complete a program focused on the prevention of domestic violence and gender-based aggression, which serves as an alternative to criminal prosecution. They also noted that legal actions could be initiated if Habosi does not comply with the order.
Despite the off-field issues, Habosi made a brief appearance in Racing’s 33-20 victory against Clermont in the French Top 14, coming off the bench for ten minutes. The team is set to face Bordeaux-Begles in their upcoming match this Saturday.
Racing 92 head coach Stuart Lancaster commented that the club is conducting an internal investigation and acknowledged the distraction such matters can cause. However, he emphasized that the team’s focus remains on preparing for the important match ahead.
Earlier this year, Habosi was dismissed from Fijian Drua for violating the club’s code of conduct, reportedly after an assault complaint was lodged with local authorities in Fiji. He later signed with Racing 92, situated west of Paris. Habosi also has international experience, having played in five matches for Fiji during the previous Rugby World Cup, including a quarter-final against England.