Top French Pétanque Players Under Investigation for Suspect Defeat and Match-Fixing

A scandal has rocked the world of pétanque with allegations of match-fixing involving some of France's most decorated players. Dylan Rocher, a nine-time world champion, along with Henri Lacroix, Jean Feltain, and David Doerr, are reportedly under investigation following a surprising loss in the Masters tournament held in Levallois-Perret in September 2025.

Their defeat against the local Levallois-Perret team, which included players with numerous national and European titles, raised immediate suspicions. The public prosecutor's office in Toulon has been conducting a nine-month investigation into the matter, focusing on charges of "organized fraud" and "active or passive corruption."

The investigation culminated on June 30, 2026, with the arrest of nine individuals, including the four prominent players, alleged bettors, and intermediaries. According to initial reports from the public prosecutor, over 13,000 euros were wagered on the defeat of the high-profile team by amateurs, with most bets placed via 50-euro coupons to avoid detection. The winnings from these bets are estimated to be around 50,000 euros.

Dylan Rocher has publicly denied any involvement, stating on Facebook, "I want to clarify that I did not participate in any rigged bets. I condemn all forms of cheating. I deny any involvement in this affair and I am serene. I have no doubt that justice will shed full light on the facts." If convicted, Rocher and the other players face up to five years in prison, a 500,000 euro fine, and a potential ban from professional pétanque competitions.

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I want to clarify that I did not participate in any rigged bets. I condemn all forms of cheating. I deny any involvement in this affair and I am serene. I have no doubt that justice will shed full light on the facts.