French tennis dad accused of drugging opponents

A retired soldier was going on trial in south-western France today for allegedly drugging his children's tennis rivals to worsen their game, leading to death in one player’s case.

Christophe Fauviau, 46, was appearing in court in the town of Mont-de-Marsan to face charges of unintentionally causing a death by administering toxic substances.

Fauviau, whose 15-year-old daughter Valentine is considered a rising star of French tennis, is accused of drugging his children’s opponents 27 times in tournaments across France from 2000 to 2003.

Prosecutors point to evidence that Fauviau had drugged 21 opponents of Valentine and six faced by his son, Maxime – at times using the anti-anxiety drug Temesta, which can cause drowsiness.

The opponents complained of various ills during the matches: weak knees, dizziness, nausea or fainting. Several were taken to hospital.

In July 2003, Maxime Fauviau defeated 25-year-old Alexandre Lagardere. Lagardere complained of fatigue after the match, and slept for two hours.

While driving home, he crashed his car and died, and police believe he fell asleep at the wheel.

Toxicology tests showed traces of Temesta in his system.