Monday 8 December 2014 21:30, UK
Martin Castrogiovanni is facing an investigation from the European Champions Cup authorities following his foul-mouthed rant against Leicester on Sunday.
The Toulon prop faces disciplinary action after unleashing an expletive-laced attack on his former director of rugby Richard Cockerill after the 25-21 defeat to the Tigers at Welford Road.
Castrogiovanni sought out journalists after the match and unleashed a rant against Cockerill, who had claimed the former Italy prop swapped the Tigers for Toulon in 2013 for financial reasons.
The 33-year-old, who claims he spent £100,000 of his own money to leave Leicester after seven years with the club, will be investigated alongside teammate Delon Armitage, who is alleged to have verbally abused spectators as he left the pitch for half-time.
"Our disciplinary officer is now investigating those incidents to determine, among other things, whether there are grounds to bring misconduct complaints against those involved," a statement released by EPCR said.
I hate lies and hypocrisy. I have always been a loyal person and I have been loyal to all the people I worked with. I have always loved the Tigers.
"The disciplinary officer has requested information from Leicester and the two players and will also review all other available evidence before deciding what the next steps, if any, will be.
"Should the disciplinary officer decide that there are grounds to bring a misconduct complaint in respect of one or both of the incidents, the case or cases would be heard by an independent disciplinary committee under the disciplinary rules.”
Castrogiovanni has since apologised for his impassioned address, and insists he was only attempting to change people’s perceptions of why he left the Tigers.
Although he has taken the first steps towards repairing the damage, his apology centered around the language used in the attack, rather than the feelings expressed.
"I want to make amends for my profanity and apologise to everyone feeling offended by what I said," he said in a statement.
"I'm sorry if my words have created misunderstandings. It also was not my intention to offend anyone, but only to point out my position after some statements.
"I hate lies and hypocrisy. I have always been a loyal person and I have been loyal to all the people I worked with. I have always loved the Tigers."
Both players are free to play in Saturday's return Pool Three match when Leicester visit Toulon.
